By Zoila Palma: Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record in 2026, with extreme temperatures affecting large parts of the region and contributing to wildfires, drought and serious health risks.
According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the region recorded an average temperature of 20.74°C, which was 3.05°C above the 1991–2020 average and surpassed the previous record set in June 2025.
The heatwave continued into July, with Spain’s Fabra Observatory in Barcelona recording 40.5°C on July 8, the highest temperature recorded there in more than a century. France also issued widespread heat alerts amid high fire danger caused by drought, extreme temperatures and low humidity, while devastating wildfires affected parts of France and the Iberian Peninsula.
Temperature records were broken across several European countries during June.
Germany recorded 41.7°C in Coschen on June 28, while Hungary reached 40.7°C, Austria 40°C and the United Kingdom recorded 37.3°C in southern England. France experienced its hottest day on record on June 24, with temperatures reaching 43.8°C in Palluau, while Spain’s Bilbao reached a record 42.7°C for June.
Health officials warned that prolonged extreme heat, particularly when nighttime temperatures remain high, can place severe stress on the body. Older adults, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, people experiencing homelessness and those living with chronic illnesses are among those most at risk.
The extreme heat was also accompanied by widespread dryness, worsening drought conditions and increased wildfire activity across parts of Europe.
The post International News: Western Europe records hottest June ever as extreme heat fuels wildfires appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record in 2026, with extreme temperatures affecting large parts of the region and contributing to wildfires, drought and serious health risks. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the region recorded an average temperature of 20.74°C, which was 3.05°C above the 1991–2020 average and surpassed
The post International News: Western Europe records hottest June ever as extreme heat fuels wildfires appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
