Why is there a heatwave in Europe?
From late May 2026 onwards, Europe has been struck by multiple severe heatwaves, with intense heat domes progressively affecting different regions of the continent (1).
Climate scientists attribute the intensity and early timing of these events largely to human-induced climate change, with Europe warming at twice the global average since the 1980s (2).
Which countries are affected by the heatwave?
While many parts of Europe experienced extreme heat during earlier heatwave phases in May, June, and July, the current fourth heatwave is primarily affecting the following countries:
- West: France, Germany
- South: Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain
- Central: Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia
- East: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia
How long will the heatwave last?
Peak temperatures across affected regions are reaching 38°C (100°F) and higher. After initially affecting Spain and Portugal, the heatwave expanded into France and Germany before spreading across parts of Central and Southern Europe.
Over the coming days, the most intense heat is expected in Italy, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, and neighboring countries, where temperatures are forecast to remain well above seasonal averages.
While some relief is expected in parts of western Europe, above-normal temperatures are likely to persist across much of the continent into early August (3).
Are there any alerts in place?
Earlier heatwave phases triggered widespread red, orange, and amber alerts across multiple European nations, prompting governments to activate comprehensive heat action plans (4).
The current phase continues to see active heat alerts from national meteorological agencies in the affected countries, with ongoing government measures including cooling centers, adjusted work schedules, and school closures.
Authorities advise staying indoors during peak hours (11am–6pm), drinking fluids, and checking on elderly and vulnerable individuals. Residents should follow local weather service alerts for the most current guidance (5).
