Historic Heat: Barcelona Sizzles, Eiffel Tower Summit Closed

(The Post News)– Europe is experiencing its first major heat wave of the summer, with record-breaking temperatures affecting several countries. The extreme heat has led to health warnings being issued in multiple European nations.

Meanwhile, Barcelona has recorded its hottest June in over a century, with an average temperature of 26°C (78°F). This breaks the previous record, which dates back to 1914. A single-day high of 37.9°C (100°F) was also recorded in Barcelona.

The heat wave is attributed to global warming, according to Ramón Pascual, a delegate for Spain’s weather service in Barcelona. Rising sea temperatures are exacerbating the issue, reducing the cooling effects of nearby bodies of water. The Mediterranean’s surface temperature is 5-6°C higher than average, making nights feel unrefreshing.

Spain has seen extreme temperatures, with a new high mark for June established in the southern province of Huelva at 46°C (114°F). Madrid is expected to reach 39°C (102°F), with little relief at night. Residents are struggling to cope with the heat, with one resident saying it’s impossible to sleep due to the terrible heat.

In France, the national weather agency has placed several departments under red alert, with the Paris region particularly affected. Over 1,300 schools have been partially or fully closed, and the Eiffel Tower’s summit has been closed to visitors until Thursday. Climate experts warn that future summers will be hotter than any recorded to date.

Italy is also experiencing a heat wave, with 17 of its 27 major cities under alert. Torrential rains have caused flooding in some areas, and a construction worker collapsed and died while working in the heat. The cause of death is suspected to be heat-related.

In response to the heat, some cities are getting creative. In the Dutch town of Soest, firefighters are hosting a water gun fight, encouraging residents to bring their water pistols and swimming clothes. Meanwhile, the Prague Zoo is distributing ice to keep animals cool, with polar bears enjoying frozen squid and icy enclosures.

The heat wave has also affected Portugal, where the highest single temperature ever recorded in June was confirmed at 46.6°C (115°F). Firefighters in Turkey are battling wildfires that have forced the evacuation of 50,000 residents. The Czech Republic is also expecting high temperatures, with zoos and residents taking precautions to stay cool.