Barcelona records highest temperature in 112 years as UK health service urges caution in heatwave
Barcelona reached 40.7°C, the highest in 112 years, while the UK issues amber heat alerts and grid operator warns of power supply risks.
A severe heatwave continues to grip Europe, with Barcelona recording a maximum temperature of 40.7°C yesterday, the highest in 112 years of records. Some stations in Spain reported temperatures up to 44°C.
In the United Kingdom, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat-health alert for several regions, including the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, South East and South West, effective until Sunday evening. The South Western Ambulance Service advised people to check on elderly relatives and vulnerable individuals, as heat can severely affect health.
Great Britain's National Energy System Operator (Neso) issued a notice warning that extreme temperatures could affect power supplies on Thursday night, as households use fans and air conditioners to cope with the heat. The operator requested extra supply from power generators to meet increased demand.
The UK Met Office stated that the current hot spell is likely to continue into next week, with today and tomorrow expected to be the hottest days, reaching up to 36°C. Temperatures should gradually decrease from Sunday night.
In France, large parts are under orange extreme heat warnings, with temperatures forecast to reach 38°C in Bordeaux and Perpignan, 37°C in Nantes, and 35°C in Paris. Northern Italy expects up to 36°C in Florence and Bologna. Western Europe experienced its warmest June on record.
