Why is Europe still not ready for extreme heat?
Europe is facing increasing challenges from extreme heat, with record temperatures recorded in several countries. Governments are struggling to implement effective heat-health action plans, leaving many citizens vulnerable. While some cities are establishing climate shelters, the overall response remains inadequate as the continent braces for more heatwaves.
- ▪France and much of Europe experienced record-breaking temperatures last month.
- ▪The World Meteorological Organisation has warned of the imminent return of the El Niño weather pattern.
- ▪Only 21 of 38 European countries have heat-health action plans in place.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
France, like much of Europe, experienced record breaking temperatures last month. Photograph: Simon Wohlfahrt/AFP/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenFrance, like much of Europe, experienced record breaking temperatures last month. Photograph: Simon Wohlfahrt/AFP/Getty ImagesThis is EuropeWorld newsWhy is Europe still not ready for extreme heat?The first heatwaves of the season reveal how ill-prepared governments across the continent are to protect people from increasingly dangerous temperatures Don’t get This Is Europe delivered to your inbox? Sign up here Ajit Niranjan, Europe environment correspondentWed 3 Jun 2026 10.25 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleMeteorological summer has begun, ushered in with scorching heat that struck before spring was up.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — World.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Guardian — World
