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France, UK, Spain Record Early Heat as May Temperatures Rise
More than 20 French towns set new May temperature records on Sunday and Monday. The UK recorded its highest May temperature at Heathrow, and Spain is forecast to reach 40C later this week.
May 25, 11:28 AM·1m read1 source
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More than 20 towns in France recorded their highest May temperatures on Sunday and Monday. 5C at Heathrow on Monday, with readings up to 35C expected through Tuesday.
Météo France stated that a heat dome formed by air from Morocco trapped under high pressure caused the temperatures. Eighteen départements were placed under high-temperature alert on Monday, the first May activation of the national system since its introduction in 2004.
2C at Bordeaux. A man died and ten runners were hospitalized after a 10 km race in Maisons-Alfort near Paris on Sunday. Météo France said night-time temperatures must remain above a set threshold for an official heatwave declaration.
Spain’s state meteorological office Aemet reported weekend highs of 38C in southern areas and forecast 36-38C across several valleys from Wednesday to Friday, with possible peaks of 40C. Much of the country may experience tropical nights with minimum temperatures above 20C.
The UK Met Office said parts of the country could meet heatwave criteria if temperatures exceed 26-28C for three consecutive days. Météo France added that similar heat events are projected to occur more frequently and earlier in the season.
