Early-summer heatwave claims 8 lives across Europe
At least eight people have died across Spain, France, and Italy as an early-summer heatwave swept across Europe in late June and early July 2025, breaking temperature records and prompting red alerts and emergency responses.
Image credit: Peter Boccia
An intense heatwave affecting large parts of Europe since late June 2025 has caused at least eight confirmed fatalities and led to widespread public health risks, wildfires, infrastructure disruption, and economic concerns.
In Spain, two individuals died during a wildfire in the eastern region of Catalonia, which consumed approximately 40 km² (15 mi2) of land. Spain recorded its hottest June on record as temperatures surpassed 46 °C (114.8 °F) in some areas, including Portugal.
In France, two heat-related deaths were confirmed. More than 300 individuals required hospitalization for heat stress. 1 350 schools were closed nationwide, and the summit of the Eiffel Tower was shut due to extreme heat. The national meteorological agency issued red heat alerts across several regions.
In Italy, two men over 60 died on Sardinian beaches. Red warnings were in effect in 18 cities, including Rome and Milan. The regions of Emilia‑Romagna and Lombardy enacted temporary bans on outdoor work during peak daytime heat.
Germany experienced temperatures of up to 40 °C (104 °F), marking its highest reading in 2025 so far. Forest fires occurred in Brandenburg and Saxony. In Switzerland, high river water temperatures forced the Beznau nuclear plant to halt one reactor and reduce output from another. Mudslides triggered by localized storms disrupted transport in alpine areas of Austria and Germany.
The current event is being driven by a persistent “heat dome” associated with warming air masses from North Africa.
France and Italy have issued work restrictions and distributed public health advisories. Germany has opened public pools and shade shelters. The nuclear sector has been affected by overheating of river cooling systems, while agriculture and tourism sectors report financial losses.
References:
1 Heatwave across Europe leaves 8 dead as early summer temperatures hit records – Reuters – July 2, 2025
2 Europe’s heatwave moves east as row erupts in France over air conditioning – The Guardian – July 2, 2025
Reet is a science journalist and researcher with a keen focus on extreme weather, space phenomena, and climate-related issues. With a strong foundation in astronomy and a history of environmental activism, she approaches every story with a sharp scientific lens and a deep sense of purpose. Driven by a lifelong love for writing, and a curiosity about the universe, Reet brings urgency and insight to some of the most important scientific developments of our time.
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