Europe heat wave continues with record temperatures and fatalities
9 reported1 unconfirmed
A severe heat wave is affecting much of Europe, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in some areas and little relief expected until at least the end of the week. In France, two children aged 2 and 4 were found dead in a car in the southern town of Carpentras, with the heat wave being the leading line of inquiry. The German Life Saving Association reported six drowning deaths over the weekend as people sought relief from extreme heat. Britain’s Met Office issued a rare red warning for extreme heat for parts of central and southern England and Wales, including London and Birmingham, from Wednesday to Thursday. France recorded its highest-ever June national heat index on Monday, and several towns experienced their hottest nights on record. Meteorologists warn the current heat wave could rival the deadly 2003 event that killed 15,000 people in France.
What’s reported
Temperatures in parts of Europe have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Two children, aged 2 and 4, were found dead in a car in Carpentras, France; the heat wave is the leading line of inquiry.
The German Life Saving Association (DLRG) reported six drowning deaths over the weekend, all men aged 19 to 53, and four more men remain missing.
Britain’s Met Office issued a red warning for extreme heat for parts of central and southern England and Wales from June 24 to June 25.
France’s national heat index hit 29.2 degrees Celsius on Monday, the highest ever recorded in June.
At least 18 people have died in France in connection with the current heat wave, including the two children.
Temperatures in Bordeaux reached 41.9 degrees Celsius, breaking a record set last August.
Paris recorded its hottest-ever June night at 24.2 degrees Celsius and a June daytime record of 37.7 degrees Celsius.
The DLRG recommends entering cold water slowly and swimming only in monitored areas.
Open questions
The exact cause of death for the two children in Carpentras has not been determined, though the heat wave is the leading line of inquiry.
Key figures
Ute Vogt, President of the German Life Saving Association (DLRG)
Helene Mourges, Carpentras prosecutor
Sources: dw.com
