Temperatures to reach 43°C: Meteorologists warn of possible historic heatwave in Europe

Europe is preparing for another intense heatwave, with meteorologists warning of potentially record-breaking temperatures across much of the continent from late July into early August. Current forecasts indicate the formation of a powerful heat dome that could last for almost two weeks, leading to extreme weather conditions.

This phenomenon is expected to significantly increase the risk of wildfires and pose serious health challenges. The most severe heat is initially forecast for the Iberian Peninsula and France, where temperatures could exceed 40°C and possibly reach 45°C locally. As the system moves eastward, extreme heat will affect Germany, the Benelux countries, Italy, Hungary, and large parts of the Balkans.

According to Severe Weather Europe, this marks the fourth major heatwave of the summer. Some forecast models suggest that temperature records could be broken in numerous European nations. Meteorologists explain that a strong area of high atmospheric pressure acts like a lid, trapping warm air near the ground and preventing cooler air from entering, which allows for further atmospheric heating.

These systems can persist for days or even weeks, causing prolonged and intense heatwaves. The current forecast points to an "Omega block" pattern developing over Europe, characterized by atmospheric stability and sustained extreme temperatures. The most significant temperature increases are anticipated by the end of the week, with the hottest air mass expanding towards Central Europe and the Balkans.

In regions like northern Italy, the Pannonian Basin, parts of Slovenia, eastern Croatia, northern Bosnia and Herzegovina, northern Serbia, Hungary, and western Romania, temperatures might range between 40°C and 43°C. Nights are also expected to remain unusually warm, with minimum temperatures in many areas not dropping below 24°C to 27°C. This lack of nighttime cooling will exacerbate the strain on the human body and hinder recovery from daytime heat. The combination of extreme temperatures, very dry air, and low humidity will significantly heighten the danger of wildfires, particularly after devastating fires have already impacted Spain and France. Meteorologists warn that the risk could extend to Italy, the Alpine region, and the western Balkan countries. Experts emphasize that prolonged drought, high temperatures, and occasional strong winds could facilitate the rapid spread of new fires.