New Delhi, May 28: Europe is reeling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels across several countries. Weather agencies have issued alerts as the scorching conditions continue to disrupt daily life, raising concerns about public health and safety.

Spain, Italy, France, Greece, and the UK are among the hardest-hit nations, with some regions recording temperatures above 40°C. In Spain, temperatures have touched 38°C, while in southwest London’s Kew Gardens area, the mercury climbed to 34.8°C — the hottest May day ever recorded in Britain. Local residents described the heatwave as “hellish,” as normal life was severely impacted.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. Cooling centres have been opened in several cities to provide relief, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable groups. Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work in certain regions due to extreme heat and prolonged drought conditions.

The dry weather has also heightened the risk of wildfires, with emergency teams on high alert as firefighters battle blazes in forested areas. Transport and outdoor activities have been disrupted, while tourism hotspots are struggling to cope with the rising temperatures.

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Meteorologists attribute the phenomenon to a “heat dome,” where hot air from North Africa is trapped under a high-pressure system over Western Europe. Experts warn that human-induced climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of such extreme weather events, pushing Europe into dangerous new climate patterns.

Health officials have advised children and senior citizens to take extra precautions, as the heatwave is expected to persist over the coming days. Researchers have cautioned governments that infrastructure such as schools and hospitals must adapt to withstand rising temperatures, as Europe faces a future of increasingly extreme summers.