Europe Swelters: Heatwave Claims Lives, Closes Schools

As of June 22, 2026, Europe is experiencing an intense heatwave, resulting in three reported deaths in France due to heat-related health issues. The extreme temperatures have necessitated significant disruptions, with almost 2,700 French schools altering their schedules or closing entirely.

Authorities have issued heatwave warnings across several European nations. In France, Bordeaux is bracing for temperatures above 42 degrees Celsius, and 49 administrative areas are under a red alert. French Health Minister Stephanie Rist indicated that very hot weather is expected to persist for several days.

Spain is also significantly affected, with some northern areas experiencing temperatures more than 10 degrees above their seasonal average. Nighttime offers little respite, as temperatures remain high in many regions. Europe's average high temperature is 4.1C above the 1961-1990 historic norm, a greater deviation than other continents.

Wildlife rescue centers, particularly in northern Europe, are overwhelmed with animals suffering from the heat. Birds like swifts and swallows are critically affected, with roof temperatures sometimes reaching 50 to 60 degrees Celsius, forcing them to abandon nests to survive.