Now, Spain Braces Alongside Portugal, France, Italy, and Turkey Facing Explosive Danger, Extreme Temperatures, Wildfires, and Trouble for Travellers Amid Heatwaves

Thursday, July 3, 2025

The UK has recently recorded its hottest June since records began in 1884, marking a milestone in the region’s climate history. As if that weren’t alarming enough, several European countries are now experiencing even higher temperatures, with officials in Portugal reporting highs of 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Spain has also recorded similar extreme temperatures. France has been forced to close thousands of schools and issue red alerts due to the intense heat, while other regions of Europe are battling wildfires and extreme weather conditions.

This article covers essential information for those traveling to Europe amidst these unprecedented heatwaves. Travelers with upcoming trips or those currently visiting should be aware of the challenges posed by these record temperatures and take steps to ensure their safety.

Countries Experiencing Extreme Heat

Several European countries are currently facing extreme temperatures, some surpassing typical summer heat by a wide margin.

Spain

According to Aemet, Spain’s national meteorological service, the month of June has been exceptionally hot, surpassing the normal averages for July and August, with the heat continuing into July. Spain has already experienced record-breaking highs, particularly in Seville, where temperatures reached 114.8°F. Predictions suggest that temperatures could surpass 115°F over the next few days. Even at night, the heat is relentless, with nighttime temperatures staying around 77°F, making it difficult for residents to find relief from the stifling conditions.

Portugal

In Portugal, the heat has been just as intense. This week, officials reported highs of 115.9°F in Mora, a town east of Lisbon. Alongside the extreme temperatures, the country has also faced severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, heavy rain showers, and a rare “roll cloud,” which was captured on video by beachgoers. This unusual cloud formation is a type of acrus cloud that forms near thunderstorms, adding to the region’s already dramatic weather.

Italy

Italy has also been suffering from a brutal heatwave, with 17 of the country’s 27 major cities experiencing soaring temperatures. Cities such as Milan, Rome, and Trento in the north have all recorded temperatures exceeding 104°F. To combat the extreme heat, many regions have enforced outdoor working bans. In addition, power outages have impacted several areas, further complicating the situation. Tragically, a 53-year-old woman in Palermo, Sicily, collapsed in the street and later died from what is believed to be heat-related complications, likely exacerbated by an underlying heart condition.

France

France has been one of the hardest-hit countries by the heatwave, with the French government issuing multiple weather alerts. On July 1, red weather alerts were issued for 16 regions, including Paris, where temperatures were forecast to reach 104°F. The Loire Valley and the Grand Est region were also among the worst affected, with temperatures well over 86°F. As a precautionary measure, nearly 2,000 schools in France were closed to protect students from the extreme conditions. In addition to the red alerts, the rest of the country is under amber weather warnings, with Brittany being the only region not currently under any heat alerts.

Turkey

Turkey, too, has been experiencing severe weather, with over 50,000 people evacuated as wildfires ravaged the western province of Izmir. Although the fires were partially contained by July 1, they have yet to be fully extinguished. The fire caused the temporary closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, leading to several flight cancellations. The wildfires, fueled by the extreme heat, have put additional pressure on emergency services, as they continue to battle the ongoing crisis.

The Balkans

The Balkans are also facing record-breaking temperatures, with Serbia experiencing its hottest day since the 19th century. The country has warned that the ongoing drought could threaten agricultural harvests. In Montenegro, tourists have been retreating to the cooler mountainous region of Durmitor to escape the intense heat. Meanwhile, Croatia is also dealing with the widespread devastation caused by wildfires.

What to Do if Your Vacation Is Affected by the Heatwave

In the unfortunate event that your vacation is disrupted due to the heatwave, understanding your travel insurance coverage can provide some clarity on what’s covered. According to a spokesperson from British insurance company Aviva, travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen emergencies, including medical treatment if you fall ill due to the heat while abroad. Additionally, if you require medical assistance or need to return home early due to health reasons, your insurance may cover the costs of treatment and travel.

However, if you decide not to travel because of the extreme heat and choose to cancel your trip, travel insurance typically won’t cover the cancellation. In such cases, it’s advisable to reach out to your airline or travel provider to see if rescheduling your trip is an option.

Tips to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

If you’re traveling to Europe during this record-breaking heatwave, it’s crucial to take steps to stay safe in these extreme conditions. Here are some essential precautions to keep in mind:

Avoid going outside during peak heat hours: The sun is hottest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so try to stay indoors during these hours to avoid heatstroke or dehydration.Seek shade when possible: Stay under trees or canopies when outside, and avoid direct exposure to the sun for extended periods.Dress appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton. This will help your body stay cooler and prevent overheating.Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when spending time outdoors. Carry a travel-friendly water bottle to ensure you always have access to fluids.Keep your accommodations cool: Close windows, draw curtains or blinds, and use air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.Invest in hot-weather accessories: Consider bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun. A good-quality hat can help shield your face and neck from direct sunlight.Apply sunscreen regularly: Make sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF before going outside and reapply it throughout the day, especially after sweating or swimming.

Europe is currently experiencing some of the most extreme heatwaves on record, with several countries facing record-breaking temperatures, wildfires, and other weather-related challenges. From Spain to Portugal, Italy, France, and beyond, the heat is impacting millions of people and disrupting daily life. Travelers planning to visit Europe during this time must stay informed about the weather, take necessary precautions, and be prepared for potential travel disruptions. While extreme heat can be dangerous, following safety tips such as staying hydrated, avoiding peak heat hours, and keeping cool can help minimize health risks during this unusually hot summer.

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