Europe is witnessing the earliest and most intense heatwaves in decades, a development closely linked to accelerating climate change, according to Julien Nicolas, senior scientist at the EU-backed Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S).
In its latest monthly climate bulletin, C3S revealed that June 2025 was the hottest on record in Western Europe, with average temperatures reaching 20.49°C, a staggering 2.81°C above the 1991–2020 norm. Two major heatwaves – one in mid-June and another stretching into early July – were primarily responsible for the spike.
“These events used to occur in mid-July or August. Now they’re starting earlier, which is consistent with long-term warming trends,” Nicolas told Xinhua.
Multiple Heat Triggers
Countries hit by the twin heatwaves included Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the UK. The phenomenon has been driven by prolonged high-pressure systems, also known as ‘heat domes’, which trap warm air and exacerbate surface heating, especially under clear and dry conditions.
An unprecedented marine heatwave in the western Mediterranean Sea further intensified the conditions. On June 30, sea surface temperatures peaked at 27°C — the highest ever for the month — with a record anomaly of 3.7°C, according to C3S data.
Nicolas described the Mediterranean as a “climate change hotspot,” citing faster and more persistent warming in the region. In 2024, sea temperatures hit historic highs in late summer. This year, those anomalies have arrived earlier and are concentrated in the western basin, he said.
Rising Health Concerns
The heatwaves have also led to an increase in “tropical nights”, when temperatures remain above 20°C overnight — a growing public health concern.
“Tropical nights prevent the body from recovering after extreme daytime heat. They significantly raise health risks,” Nicolas explained.
The trend is further exacerbated by Arctic amplification, a process in which reduced snow and ice accelerate warming. This also alters atmospheric circulation patterns, including the jet stream, which contributes to more prolonged and severe heat waves.
Outlook for 2025: More Heat Ahead
Looking ahead, seasonal forecasts from C3S indicate a warmer and drier summer, particularly across eastern and southeastern Europe.
“We should expect more frequent and intense heatwaves as global temperatures rise,” Nicolas warned.
The scientist stressed the urgency of global climate action, urging policymakers to prioritise both emission reductions and climate adaptation strategies.
“We must address the root causes — greenhouse gas emissions from human activity. Clearly, climate action is more urgent than ever,” he added.
Source: IANS/Xinhua
