Large parts of Europe are preparing for another intense heatwave as temperatures climb well above seasonal averages across the continent, bringing health warnings, travel disruptions and growing concerns about extreme summer weather.

The latest heat event follows an unusually early heatwave in May and is expected to be both more widespread and more severe. Meteorologists forecast temperatures approaching or exceeding 40°C in several countries, with some regions expected to experience prolonged periods of extreme heat through next week.

From the Iberian Peninsula to Central Europe, authorities are urging residents and visitors to take precautions as temperatures continue to rise.

France Faces Temperatures Above 40°C

France is among the countries expected to be hardest hit during the latest heatwave. Forecasts indicate temperatures could reach up to 40°C in some areas over the weekend, particularly in the southwest and around Bordeaux.

The renewed heat comes only weeks after an earlier heatwave that led to multiple heat-related deaths across the country. In response to the soaring temperatures, Paris authorities have introduced measures aimed at helping residents cool down, including opening designated swimming areas.

Officials continue to monitor conditions closely as the country braces for several days of exceptionally hot weather.

Spain Endures Relentless Heat

Spain is already experiencing extreme conditions, with temperatures exceeding 30°C across many regions and reaching 35°C in western areas and parts of the Ebro Valley.

Overnight temperatures have remained unusually high, particularly around Barcelona, where minimum temperatures have stayed above 24°C, creating so-called tropical nights that offer little relief from daytime heat.

Forecasters expect temperatures to intensify further during the week, with some western regions potentially reaching 39°C to 40°C. Meteorologists attribute the heat to a surge of very warm air moving north from North Africa.

Portugal And Southern Europe Also Affected

Portugal is expected to see a significant rise in temperatures from the weekend onward, with some areas forecast to exceed 40°C during the coming week.

The hot air mass affecting Spain and Portugal is also carrying increased levels of suspended dust from North Africa, potentially reducing air quality in some locations.

Authorities are advising residents and tourists to remain hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours and follow local heat warnings.

Central And Eastern Europe See Rising Temperatures

The heatwave is not confined to Western Europe. Forecast models indicate that temperatures will also rise sharply across parts of Central and Eastern Europe.

Hungary’s capital Budapest could experience temperatures between 36°C and 37°C, while parts of Bulgaria and Romania are forecast to approach 38°C as the high-pressure system expands across the region.

The widespread nature of the event highlights the scale of the current heat dome affecting much of the continent.

Impact On Travel And Tourism

The extreme weather is likely to affect travel plans across Europe, particularly in major tourist destinations during the peak summer season.

High temperatures can place additional pressure on transportation networks, increase wildfire risks and affect outdoor attractions, sightseeing activities and sporting events.

Travelers visiting affected destinations are encouraged to monitor local weather forecasts, carry water, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day and remain aware of official health advisories.

Another Challenging Summer For Europe

The latest heatwave continues a pattern of increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events across Europe. Scientists have repeatedly warned that heatwaves are becoming more common, longer-lasting and more severe as global temperatures rise.

With forecasts indicating that exceptionally hot conditions could persist into next week, millions of people across the continent are preparing for what may become one of the most significant heat events of the summer so far.