Heat wave sets records across Western Europe, killing dozens

Western Europe recorded extreme temperatures on June 24, 2026, with dozens of deaths reported and widespread disruptions to power, transport, and daily activities. An Omega block weather pattern is sustaining the heat. At least 48 people died in France from drowning while seeking relief from the heat, while two children died from heat exposure inside a vehicle, authorities said.

Two elderly people died of heatstroke in Spain, where temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius since the weekend before easing on Wednesday.

Record temperatures and alerts France recorded its hottest day since records began nearly 80 years ago on June 23, with a peak of 44.3 degrees Celsius in the southwestern town of Pissos. Authorities worked to restore electricity to thousands of homes affected by power cuts in the northwestern region of Brittany.

Italy’s health ministry issued its highest heat alert for 16 cities. Britain’s Met Office issued only its second extreme-heat weather warning in history, as the country headed toward its hottest June day on record.

Weather pattern and long-term context A rare Omega block weather pattern is trapping heat over the region, producing temperatures up to 18 degrees Celsius above normal, according to the Reuters Climate Monitor. The pattern creates a high-pressure area that holds heat in place for extended periods.

Meteo-France said current conditions are comparable to an August 2003 heat wave that lasted 16 days and caused an estimated 80,000 excess deaths across Europe. The World Meteorological Organization has stated that Europe is warming at more than twice the global average.

Disruptions to daily life Hundreds of schools in Britain stayed closed or closed early. The Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum shut early on June 23. In Switzerland, local authorities opened air-conditioned theaters for free daytime screenings. Construction contractors across the continent adjusted working hours, while retailers reported increased demand for fans and portable air conditioners.