Heatwave Map Spotlight: Europe

Why is there a heatwave in Europe?

As of July 2, 2025, there is a severe heatwave impacting southern, central, and eastern Europe. The heatwave is being attributed to a combination of meteorological conditions and the broader impacts of climate change (1). Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such heatwaves.

Albania, Croatia, Italy, France, Greece, Portugal, Spain and other Mediterranean countries are experiencing extreme temperatures, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), due to high-pressure systems that trap hot air and prevent cooling. Some cities in eastern Europe are expected to see extreme temperatures on July 3.

Saharan dust moving through Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands Luxembourg, and France is also contributing to poor air quality in the western Europe.

Which cities or areas are affected by the heatwave?

Temperatures are expected to reach into the upper 90s  in many cities in southern, eastern, and central Europe on July 3 (2).

• Athens, Greece
• Aydin, Turkey
  
• Belgrade, Serbia
  
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Budapest, Hungary
• Foggia, Italy
  
• Graz, Austria
• Krakow, Poland
• Madrid, Spain
• Marseille, France
• Milan, Italy
• Podgorica, Montenegro
• Prague, Czechia
• Rome, Italy
  
• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Seville, Spain
• Siena, Italy
• Sofia, Bulgaria
• Split, Croatia
  
• Tirana, Albania
  
• Warsaw, Poland
• Zagreb, Croatia

Air quality will be impacted in these cities by heat, potentially from wildfire smoke as wildfire risk increases, and dust moving north from the Sahara Desert into northern and central Europe.

How long will the heatwave last?

The heatwave in Europe began before the weekend of June 28 and is expected to persist through at least midweek – around July 3 or July 4. While the heat moving east, it is lingering in southern Europe

Specific forecasts indicate that temperatures will peak on different days in various countries. The heatwave is anticipated to last several days, with some regions experiencing prolonged high temperatures until conditions begin to normalize later in the week.

Are there any alerts in place?

Several alerts and advisories have been issued in response to the heatwave and associated risks, including wildfires (3).

Authorities in countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and France have issued health alerts, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and children. Travel advisories have been issued by authorities in Austria, Germany, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. They are advising against travel to southern Europe during the heat wave. Additionally, some regions have implemented measures such as banning outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day.

Evacuations have been ordered in areas affected by heat-related wildfires, such as parts of Greece, Turkey, and France, to ensure the safety of residents and tourists.

Recommendations include staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seeking shade.