A heat wave is sweeping across Europe, bringing temperatures above 104 degrees Fahrenheit and prompting heat alerts in 26 countries. The heat wave is attributed to a heat dome, a persistent high-pressure system that traps hot air, and is exacerbated by a strengthening El Niño in the tropical Pacific.
Impact on Daily Life
In France, the government has banned public alcohol consumption in areas under red heat wave alerts, and over 800 schools have been closed. The UK is bracing for a record-breaking temperature, with forecasts suggesting it could reach 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday.
Scientists warn that these types of extreme heat waves will become more common as the planet heats up due to human-driven climate change. The World Health Organization reports that extreme temperatures have killed over 200,000 people in the past four years.
The heat wave is also affecting other parts of Europe, with Spain closing a World Cup fan zone due to the heat and nighttime temperatures in some areas not dropping below 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
