Western Europe sets new temperature record as heat waves pummel the region
Summary
Western Europe experienced record-high temperatures during the summer of 2026, breaking previous heat records for June and July. The heat waves caused wildfires, drought, and low river levels across the region. Scientists say human-caused global warming and a strong El Niño event are behind the extreme heat.Key Facts
- Western Europe set a new average temperature record for June-July at 21.62°C (70.92°F).
- The heat waves began in May 2026 and caused wildfires and drought conditions.
- Rivers like the Danube and Rhine reached very low water levels due to dry weather.
- July 2026 had the highest average sea surface temperature recorded outside polar regions.
- El Niño, a Pacific Ocean warming event, helped increase global temperatures.
- 2026 is currently the third-hottest year on record worldwide, with a chance to become the hottest.
- Drier soils reduce natural cooling, making heat waves worse in Europe.
- The European climate agency Copernicus provided the data and analysis on the heat records.
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