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Europe's Hellish Summer: Heat, Fires Rage On
31 Jul
Summary
- Fires in France and Spain have broken records for this time of year.
- Extreme heatwaves are linked to climate breakdown, scientists confirm.
- Oil companies knew about climate change for decades but hindered action.
Europe is grappling with an exceptionally harsh summer, marked by relentless heat and devastating wildfires. Climatologist Stefan Rahmstorf observed massive smoke plumes from fires near Bordeaux, a stark reminder of escalating climate impacts. This fire season has shattered records in France and Spain, leading to widespread evacuations and destruction.
Scientists confirm that the extreme weather, including record soil dryness and heatwaves, is consistent with climate breakdown predictions. They note that the fundamental link between fossil fuel emissions and rising temperatures was understood even in the 1970s by entities like ExxonMobil. Despite growing evidence and warnings, decisive global action to cut emissions remains insufficient.
Rahmstorf highlights the long-term persistence of CO2 in the atmosphere, emphasizing that reduced emissions can only prevent further worsening, not reverse current conditions. Recent deadly floods and scorching summers underscore the urgency, yet policy measures, like proposed changes to the EU's emissions trading system, have faced weakening.
