The last mega-drought comparable to 2026 dates back to 1540, but it occurs today in a radically different climate

Europe is currently experiencing a severe drought and widespread wildfires, an event that historical climatologist Laurent Litzenburger compares to a significant drought in 1540. While direct comparisons are challenging, the historical event offers lessons for understanding the present situation.

Litzenburger, an associate researcher at the University of Lorraine's Center for University Research in Lorraine History (CRULH), is a leading expert in historical climatology. He notes that the 1540 event was exceptional for its pre-industrial era, providing a rare historical benchmark for the extreme conditions Europe is facing today.

The interview, published by Le Temps, explores the parallels and divergences between past and present climatic extremes. While the article snippet does not detail the specific findings of the interview, it frames the discussion around the unique challenges posed by current climate change, which fundamentally alters the context of historical weather events.