Western Europe sets new temperature record as heat waves pummel the region
Copernicus said persistent heat waves fueled wildfires, drought and thousands of excess deaths as the region set a 21.62C average for June and July.
- Western Europe recorded its hottest June-July period on record with temperatures averaging 21.62°C, surpassing the previous 2022 record, according to Copernicus.
- Persistent high-pressure systems trapped heat over the region, amplifying widespread drought; soil moisture levels were "significantly lower" than in July 2022, reducing natural cooling, Copernicus added.
- River flows in the Seine, Rhine, and Danube reached record lows, impacting transport and energy production, while France and Spain battled severe wildfires during the heatwaves.
- Global ocean temperatures hit record highs in July, driven by marine heatwaves and a developing El Nino in the Pacific; Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo said El Nino "is probably the driving force."
- Scientists expect new global average temperature records later this year or early 2027, with greenhouse gases identified as the main warming driver, Buontempo noted.
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334 Articles
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