Large regions of Europe are facing a terrible heatwave, with soaring temperatures pushing French officials to organise crisis talks as governments around the continent cope with mounting health, environmental and infrastructure worries.
The government of France has held emergency talks to consider the consequences of the unusual weather, which has seen temperatures soar considerably beyond seasonal averages in parts of the country. Officials also kept an eye on demand on hospitals and public services and looked at steps to help vulnerable groups such the elderly, children and outdoor workers.
Temperatures soared to dangerous levels in countries including France, Spain, Italy, Portugal and areas of Central Europe prompting meteorological organisations across Europe to issue heat warnings. Officials are urging residents to drink water, limit time in the heat and practise public health measures.
The warmth has raised fears of wildfires, especially in southern Europe where dry weather and strong winds have enhanced the potential of swiftly spreading fires. Firefighters have been put on high alert in numerous nations and local authorities have restricted some outdoor activities.
Energy companies are also experiencing greater demand as households and businesses are highly reliant on air conditioning to cope with the harsh temperatures. Longer spells of heat might throw extra strain on electrical grids and essential infrastructure, experts warn.
In recent years, climate experts have noted an increase in the number of intense and persistent heatwaves across Europe. Many academics tie the pattern to climate change, saying that global warming is causing extreme weather events to be more frequent and more severe.
Health professionals have raised alarm about the impact on vulnerable groups, especially after past European heatwaves have resulted in thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths. Hospitals and emergency services in various nations have devised contingency plans to prepare for unexpected surges in heat-related emergencies.
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French officials said they will monitor conditions closely and work with regional administrations to ensure populations affected have enough help. Other areas of Europe have imposed similar limits as officials try to reduce the effects of the prolonged heatwave.
Forecasters expect high temperatures to remain in some parts of the continent in the coming days, keeping authorities on alert as Europe faces one of the biggest weather events of the summer.
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