Europe Faces Arctic Chill Followed by Extreme Heat; U.S. Northwest Braces for Winter Storm
Europe is experiencing a dramatic weather shift, transitioning from Arctic chill to extreme heat. Last week, Arctic air pushed temperatures 10-15°C below seasonal averages across much of Europe, causing overnight frosts and widespread thunderstorms. Approximately 750,000 lightning strikes were recorded between May 11 and 16. Serbia issued red warnings for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hail. This week, a high-pressure system is expected to bring hot air from North Africa, with temperatures in France and England rising by 15°C, potentially reaching the mid- to high-30s Celsius in Spain and Portugal. Meanwhile, in the U.S., the Northwest is preparing for its second winter storm of the month, with significant snowfall expected in Wyoming, northern Colorado, and northeast Utah. Winds up to 60 mph (96 km/h) may create blizzard conditions, while red-flag warnings for wildfire risks are in effect farther southwest.