ROME – A widespread heatwave has engulfed multiple regions across the world, triggering wildfires and prompting health warnings in parts of Asia, Europe, and North America.
As extreme temperatures persist, firefighters are battling blazes in Greece and the Canary Islands, while Spain issues heat alerts, and Italy’s Sardinia restricts outdoor activities for children.
Authorities from California to China are warning of the health risks associated with soaring temperatures, advising people to stay hydrated and seek shelter from the sun.
Numerous temperature records have been shattered globally, with new heat streaks in China and the United States and fresh highs in France.
In Beijing, a record was broken with 27 consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit).
Phoenix in the United States also broke a 49-year-old record with its 19th consecutive day of temperatures reaching 43.3 degrees Celsius or higher.
The World Meteorological Agency (WMO) underlines the concerning trend of increasing heatwaves, with no signs of abating.
John Nairn, a senior extreme heat advisor at WMO, warns that these events will continue to intensify, necessitating global preparation for more severe heatwaves.
In Greece, forest fires continue to blaze northwest of Athens, with another heatwave expected to hit on Thursday, bringing temperatures of around 44 degrees Celsius.
The Canary Islands face a similar situation, as 400 firefighters combat a blaze that has already destroyed 3,500 hectares of forest, leading to the evacuation of 4,000 residents.
Italy and Spain are grappling with unforgiving temperatures as well, with the Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily projected to surpass the continental record of 48.8 degrees Celsius.
In Spain, three regions are under hot weather red alerts.
Devastating effects of the heatwave
The impact of the heatwave is also evident in the US, where tens of millions of Americans are experiencing dangerous heat levels.
San Angelo, Texas, saw temperatures reaching 40-42 degrees Celsius, and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport in Arizona broke a record with 18 consecutive days of temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Experts emphasize that the heatwaves are a result of multiple factors, all exacerbated by climate change.
John Nairn, director of France’s Pierre-Simon Laplace climate institute, highlights the need for global leadership in addressing climate issues.
US climate envoy John Kerry recently met with Chinese officials in Beijing to revive diplomacy on reducing emissions, recognizing the role of both China and the US as the world’s largest polluters.
As the heatwave continues to impact different regions worldwide, authorities and individuals must remain vigilant in their efforts to mitigate its effects and combat the ongoing climate crisis.
