Europe is in the grips of a catastrophic heatwave, shattering records and signaling a grim new reality. On Saturday, temperatures in Spain soared to a staggering 46°C, the highest ever recorded for June, while neighboring Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, sweltered under a blistering 40°C. The heatwave is not confined to the Iberian Peninsula; it is sweeping across the continent, with alarming forecasts predicting even higher temperatures in the coming days.

In France, a shocking 84 out of 96 mainland regions are under an orange heat alert, the second highest warning level. Tourists at the Eiffel Tower faced unbearable conditions, waiting in line as water was sprayed on them to provide some relief. Locals are forced to adapt their daily routines, avoiding outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day to protect vulnerable individuals.

London is also feeling the heat, with temperatures soaring 10°C above seasonal averages, marking the hottest opening day on record at the Wimbledon Tennis Tournament. Players are granted extra breaks, while fans endure the sweltering conditions, some struggling to cope with the intense sun.

The extreme temperatures are attributed to a relentless high-pressure system over Europe, commonly referred to as a heat dome. The World Health Organization has issued stark warnings that such heat events are becoming more frequent and perilous due to climate change, with scientists cautioning that this relentless heat may soon be considered the new normal.

As Europe grapples with this unprecedented heatwave, the urgent call to action is clear: the time for addressing climate change is now. The continent’s residents must prepare for a future where scorching summers could become an annual ordeal. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to unfold.