Large parts of Western Europe are getting ready for the first major heatwave of the summer. Temperatures are expected to rise more than 10°C above normal, and new monthly records for May could be set in possibly hundreds of places.
On Friday and into next week, temperatures in Portugal, Spain, France, and the UK are forecast to exceed 30°C (86°F). Paris and London could reach 32°C, southwestern France 35°C, and parts of Spain, like the Guadiana and Guadalquivir regions, could see highs of up to 38°C.
Météo-France said: “Both daytime and nighttime temperatures are likely to reach unprecedented levels for this time of year in many areas, especially the southwest. This early heatwave will be intense and last several days.”
The French weather service said it’s almost certain that records will be broken for the highest May temperature in France (currently 30.5°C, set in 2025) and the highest average temperature across the country on a May day (22.8°C, set in 2017).
They explained that these extreme temperatures—likely to beat previous records by three or four degrees in cities like Nantes and Brest—are caused by a heat dome. Hot air from Morocco is trapped under the high pressure of a strong anticyclone.
Météo-France noted that the temperatures expected in Brittany are “quite remarkable so early in the pre-summer season” and could exceed existing records by three degrees or more.
They added that climate breakdown means Europe, the fastest-warming continent in the world, can expect such extreme heat events “more and more often, earlier and earlier, and with greater intensity.”
The UK’s Met Office said temperatures could reach 33°C locally on Monday, which would beat the current highest May temperature of 32.8°C, set in 1944. “Extraordinary” heat health alerts have been issued for the weekend.
Parts of the UK could also experience a heatwave, with temperatures above 26°C to 28°C (depending on the location) for three days. That’s unlikely in France, where nighttime temperatures also need to stay above a certain level for an official heatwave to be declared, or in Spain, where temperatures would need to reach high summer levels.
In Spain, where temperatures already hit 38°C on Thursday, a two-year-old girl died in the northwestern region of Galicia after being accidentally left in her father’s car for hours.
Spain’s state weather agency, Aemet, said the hot spell is expected to last well into next week and could bring record May temperatures. Spokesperson Rubén del Campo said: “Full-on summer heat is the best way to describe the weather we’ll see across most of Spain in the coming days.”
“Temperatures will be between 5°C and 10°C above the seasonal average—and 10°C above average for this time of year in northern regions. These are the kind of temperatures we normally see in July and August.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about the upcoming heatwave in Western Europe written in a natural tone with clear concise answers
General Questions
Q I keep hearing about fullon summer heat in Western Europe What does that actually mean
A It means temperatures are expected to be much hotter than normal for this time of yearoften reaching 3035C or more Its the kind of heat youd normally feel in July or August not in early summer or late spring
Q Which countries are going to be affected
A The heat is expected to hit the UK France Germany Belgium the Netherlands and parts of Spain and Italy The exact path can shift so check local forecasts for your specific area
Q How long will this heatwave last
A Forecasts suggest it could last several days possibly up to a week However the duration depends on weather patterns so its best to monitor updates
Safety Health Questions
Q Is this heat dangerous
A Yes it can be especially for young children older adults pregnant people and those with chronic health conditions Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are real risks
Q What are the signs of heat exhaustion
A Heavy sweating weakness coldpaleclammy skin a fast but weak pulse nausea and fainting If you notice these move to a cool place and drink water
Q What is heatstroke and how is it different
A Heatstroke is a medical emergency Signs include a high body temperature hotreddry skin a strong rapid pulse confusion and loss of consciousness Call emergency services immediately
Q Whats the simplest way to stay safe
A Stay hydrated stay indoors in air conditioning or shade during peak heat wear light clothing and never leave people or pets in a parked car
Practical Tips Preparation
Q Should I cancel my travel plans
A Not necessarily but you should adjust them Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening Carry water a hat and sunscreen Check if your
