Europe Swelters: Greece & Spain Brace for 44C Heat

As of July 20, 2026, Southern Europe is grappling with intense heatwaves. Greece is experiencing its first significant summer heat surge, with temperatures soaring to 40-41 degrees Celsius across much of the country. Isolated inland areas are expected to reach even higher temperatures.

Simultaneously, Spain is in the midst of its third heatwave of the summer. The state meteorological service forecasts temperatures up to 44 degrees Celsius, particularly affecting the south-east, north-east, and interior parts of Mallorca. The Andalusia region has a red alert due to extreme health risks.

Both nations are on high alert for wildfire risks, a danger exacerbated by the prolonged dry and hot conditions. Researchers attribute these extreme weather events primarily to human-caused climate change, which leads to conditions ripe for prolonged droughts and increased fire susceptibility.

In Greece, cities have opened air-conditioned public spaces for relief, and doctors advise staying hydrated and avoiding exertion. Spain's meteorological agency has also issued warnings for areas along the Guadalquivir and Ebro river valleys, anticipating peak temperatures around Thursday.