European Heatwave June 2026

More than 95 million people in Europe are experiencing temperatures above 35°C early in the summer, with about two-fifths of Europeans facing temperatures above 30°C. Eastern and southern Europe, including Hungary, Slovakia, and Italy, are among the most affected regions.

Widespread wildfires spread across Spain following the summer heatwave, burning approximately 4,000 hectares in La Litera, Huesca province. Around 200 people were evacuated there, and 16,000 residents near Barcelona were ordered to stay indoors due to the fires.

The heatwave in Western Europe caused approximately one thousand additional deaths, mainly among people aged 65 or older, with most fatalities occurring at home in the Ile-de-France region, including Paris.

Germany recorded its highest June temperature at 41.3°C in Saarbrücken; over five days, Spain reported 327 heat-related deaths amid the ongoing heatwave. Belgium and the Netherlands also experienced record June temperatures during this period.

Paris imposed temporary restrictions on public alcohol consumption and takeaway sales during peak hours to reduce hospital strain amid the heatwave and rising emergency cases, including a quadrupling of heart attacks.

Europe experienced a record-breaking heatwave with temperatures rising across France, Spain, Italy, and Germany; at least 40 drownings occurred in France and similar incidents in Germany as people sought respite in rivers and canals. Authorities issued red alerts and enacted emergency measures including labor protections and transport disruptions due to extreme heat.

France recorded 40 drowning deaths during the heatwave with temperatures surpassing 40°C, causing disruptions in schools, transit, and public events across several European countries.

Western and Central Europe experienced red alerts for extreme heat above 40°C; in France, temperatures reached 42°C in Bordeaux, leading to over 845 school closures and early dismissal in 1,800 schools.

France issued a heatwave warning for about one-third of the country with temperatures up to 40°C, implemented alcohol bans in public places, and canceled outdoor sports events to reduce health risks.

France banned alcohol consumption in 35 regions during the Fete de la Musique festival to mitigate health risks amid the severe heatwave.