A severe heatwave that has been linked to dozens of deaths in Western Europe spread eastwards on Saturday, bringing sweltering conditions to Germany and Italy. Temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in several countries, setting new records for June. Scientists have stated that this heatwave would have been virtually impossible without human-induced climate change, making nighttime temperatures 100 times more likely than two decades ago.
Record Temperatures in Germany
On Friday, a preliminary German record of 41.3°C was recorded near Saarbruecken close to the French border, according to a spokesperson for Germany's National Meteorological Service. Karsten Brandt, a meteorologist at Donnerwetter.de, noted that the heatwave is expected to peak over the weekend, with temperatures well above 40°C in some parts of Germany. The German Meteorological Service issued extreme heat warnings for nearly the entire country on Saturday, urging people to save water. Temperatures of 36°C were expected across the board, with local highs of 42°C possible.
Italy Issues Red Alerts
Italy's health ministry issued red alerts for 18 cities, including Milan, Rome, Turin, Venice, Genoa, Florence, and Bologna, for Saturday and Sunday, with temperatures expected to reach 39°C in some areas. Italian singer Loredana Berte cancelled a concert scheduled for Sunday in Bergamo due to the heat, on the advice of her management and medical staff. Dieter Peterlin, a meteorologist in Bolzano, reported that Friday was the warmest June night on record in the Italian Alps, with overnight temperatures not dropping below 25.4°C.
Impact on France and Switzerland
In France, dozens of people have died during the heatwave, with temperatures above 40°C disrupting rail travel and power generation, leading to alcohol bans, school suspensions, and postponed outdoor events. The French prime minister's office stated that although the heatwave is moving on, pressure on the healthcare system will persist, and hospitalizations will remain high for several days. Reports of wildfires in France have increased compared to last year. In Switzerland, the Lausanne Pride march proceeded on Saturday despite forecast temperatures of up to 33°C, with extra water fountains and first responders in place. The Milan Pride march was delayed until 5 pm to avoid the worst heat.
Transport and Infrastructure Strains
German national rail operator Deutsche Bahn offered customers free cancellations for long-distance travel into early next week, citing infrastructure strain from sun exposure and risks from thunderstorms and wildfires. National Express suspended trains on its Rhine-Ruhr-Express line in North Rhine-Westphalia as a preventative measure. Near Hamburg, part of the A7 autobahn was closed due to asphalt splitting from the heat. The Ironman European Championship in Frankfurt shortened its cycling and running courses due to the heat.
Water Conservation Urged
Andre Berghegger, CEO of the German Association of Towns and Municipalities, urged the public to use water sparingly, emphasizing voluntary cooperation before imposing bans. The most extreme heat is forecast to begin fading at the weekend, with heavy thunderstorms expected on Sunday.
Broader Impacts and Omega Block Phenomenon
Across Europe, cultural landmarks have closed, farming has suffered, and some hospitals have struggled to cope. The heatwave has pushed temperatures up to 18°C above seasonal averages, driven by an Omega block weather pattern that traps hot air over regions for extended periods. Demand for electric fans has surged, and Asian air conditioning makers have reported a sales boom in Europe, where housing stock is built to retain heat rather than withstand it.
