Thunderstorms to break Europe's extreme heatwave

Europe is grappling with an intense heatwave, shattering temperature records across the continent. Germany recorded a new high of 41.3 degrees Celsius near Saarbrücken on Friday, while France has also seen temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius. This extreme heat has led to dozens of deaths, disrupted public transport, and prompted measures such as alcohol bans and school closures.

However, relief is on the horizon as the extreme heat is forecast to diminish over the weekend. Instead, cooler air moving in is expected to destabilize the atmosphere, bringing thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and hail to various regions. The Netherlands is bracing for rain and thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon, with heavy winds and large hailstones up to four centimeters expected in northwestern Germany.

France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom are also anticipating thunderstorms throughout the weekend. In Sweden, a yellow weather warning is in effect for Sunday, predicting rain and thunderstorms that could bring strong winds and even storm gusts in some areas. Localized risks of hail have also been reported.