Southern Europe Sizzles in Record-Breaking Heatwave
Southern Europe is baking under a savage heatwave, with temperatures set to hit a blistering 47°C in Sardinia this week. If that happens, it could smash the European record of 48.8°C, last set in Sicily back in 2021. Italian authorities have raised red alerts for 16 cities as wildfires rage, including one on La Palma in the Canary Islands that forced 4,000 people to flee their homes.
Global Heat Madness: China and US Also Boiling
The extreme heat isn’t just a European nightmare. China’s Xinjiang region roasted at a staggering 52.2°C — a new record. Meanwhile, the US Southwest is gripped by a deadly heat dome. Death Valley, California, hit a scorching 53.9°C (128°F) on Sunday, dangerously close to the highest-ever Earth temperature of 56.7°C.
WMO Sounds Alarm: Extreme Heat ‘New Normal’
The World Meteorological Organisation warns these brutal weather events are no fluke—they’re becoming the “new normal” thanks to climate change. They predict a 50% chance the planet will warm more than 1.5°C before 2027, breaking the target from the 2015 Paris Agreement. Global efforts to curb emissions are still falling short.
Western Balkans on High Alert: Heatwave Hits Hard
- Serbia: Entire country on highest heat alert. Belgrade hospitals flooded with heat-related cases. Authorities warn to stay indoors and avoid excessive booze when hitting outdoor pools.
- North Macedonia: Emergency measures for seven days. Vulnerable people excused from work, outdoor shifts cut by 11am. National parks and forests closed to prevent wildfires.
- Croatia: Multiple wildfires burn, firefighting planes in action. Orange alerts countrywide, red alert for Split on Tuesday.
