UK and France Brace for Fifth Heat Wave Amid Record Temperatures in Western Europe
The U.K. and France are preparing for their fifth heat wave of the season, with temperatures expected to reach 40°C in southeastern France and 36°C in England. This follows a series of extreme heat events across Europe since May, contributing to wildfires, droughts, and record temperatures. The heat has led to thousands of projected heat-related deaths and significant impacts on health services. The year 2026 is on track to potentially become the hottest year on record, driven by human-caused global warming and a strong El Nino effect.