Europe Heatwave Claims Eight Lives Sparks Wildfires and Health Alerts
MADRID – A fierce early summer heatwave has killed at least eight people across Europe, triggering red alerts, wildfires, and the shutdown of a Swiss nuclear reactor. Four people died in Spain, including two in a Catalonia wildfire, while France and Italy each reported two heat-related deaths as record-breaking temperatures gripped the continent.
Authorities in Italy issued red alerts for 18 cities amid scorching conditions, and Germany braced for highs nearing 40°C, marking the hottest day of the year. France’s health minister warned of heightened risks to the elderly and vulnerable, urging continued vigilance as red alerts persisted across central regions.
In Turkey, wildfires forced mass evacuations earlier this week but are now largely under control, officials said. Meanwhile, Spain’s Catalonia wildfire destroyed farms and scorched a 40-kilometer stretch before containment.
The extreme heat has overwhelmed hospitals, displaced thousands, and raised concerns about worsening impacts on public health and infrastructure across Europe.
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