An abnormal heat wave has swept across Europe: a red alert has been issued, and the first casualties have been reported
23 June 04:17
A severe heat wave has swept across Western and Southern Europe. In France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Germany, and the United Kingdom, authorities are stepping up safety measures, closing schools, canceling public events, and warning the public about health risks. This was reported by The Guardian, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
A number of regions have issued the highest, red, danger level. Air temperatures may exceed 40° in the coming days, and in some parts of Spain, they could rise to 44°.
France has already reported its first deaths that may be linked to the abnormally high temperatures.
The heatwave has claimed its first lives in France
The most critical situation is currently unfolding in France.
In the southeastern part of the country, two young children were found in a family car with no signs of life. The intense heat is believed to be the preliminary cause of the tragedy, as temperatures in the region were approaching 40°.
Near Bordeaux, the deaths of three elderly people were also reported. According to preliminary data, their condition may have deteriorated due to the high temperatures.
The exact circumstances of each case are being determined by the relevant authorities.
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Millions of French People Received Warnings
French authorities have urged approximately 35 million residents to follow safety precautions.
Dozens of departments are under a red or orange alert. The extremely high temperatures are expected to persist at least through the end of the week.
Temperatures in Bordeaux are forecast to reach 43°, which could set a new record.
In Paris and other major cities, additional drinking water stations are being set up, medical services are being ramped up, and outdoor events are being restricted.
Schools are closing due to the heat
The extreme temperatures have disrupted school operations.
In France, more than 1,300 schools have been temporarily closed, and about 4,000 more have adjusted their class schedules.
Some schools are ending classes early so that children are not in classrooms during the hottest hours of the day.
Schools are advised to provide students with drinking water, ventilate classrooms, and limit physical activity.
Red alerts have been issued in Italy
In Italy, the highest heat danger level has been declared in a number of major cities.
Special attention is being paid to the elderly, children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses.
In some regions, authorities are restricting outdoor work during the day when temperatures reach their peak.
Medical facilities have been placed on high alert due to the risk of an increase in cases of heatstroke and exacerbations of cardiovascular diseases.
In Spain, temperatures are forecast to reach 44°
Spain has declared its first official heat wave of the summer.
In the southern and central regions, temperatures may reach 42–44°.
Authorities are canceling some public events, adjusting work schedules, and urging citizens to avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day.
The highest fire risk is expected in arid regions, where high temperatures will be combined with strong winds.
The United Kingdom is preparing for record-breaking heat
In the United Kingdom, the meteorological service has issued a rare red alert for extreme heat.
It covers a significant portion of England and southern Wales, including London, Birmingham, and Cambridgeshire.
Temperatures are expected to rise to 38–40°.
The particular danger lies not only in daytime highs but also in extremely warm nights, which prevent the body from recovering from the heat.
Germany and Belgium are canceling events
Germany and Belgium are also stepping up safety measures.
Due to the high temperatures, authorities are canceling or rescheduling mass gatherings, sporting events, and outdoor concerts.
In Germany, severe thunderstorms and sudden gusts of wind are possible following the heatwave.
Workers are advised to avoid strenuous physical labor during the day, and employers are urged to adjust work schedules and provide staff with water.
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