UK faces potential 40C heatwave as Europe grapples with extreme temperatures
Quick Look
- The UK's Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning for extreme heat, with temperatures potentially hitting 40C.
- Europe is experiencing a severe heatwave, leading to school closures and transport disruptions.
- Scientists link the extreme heat to the upcoming strong El Niño, nicknamed 'Godzilla'.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The UK's Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning for extreme heat, with temperatures potentially reaching 40C. Europe is also experiencing a debilitating heatwave.
Met Office forecasters have issued a rare red weather warning for England, with temperatures potentially reaching 40C (104F) in some places. Europe is also dealing with a debilitating heatwave, with schools closed, trains cancelled and France even restricting the consumption of alcohol outdoors to take pressure off the emergency services. The high temperatures coincide with the coming El Niño, which some scientists have nicknamed Godzilla for its predicted strength. To find out whether the two are linked, Ian Sample hears from our Europe climate correspondent, Ajit Niranjan. He explains why it’s so hot, why we could be in for even worse and how we can keep as cool as possible
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Temperatures in some parts of England could exceed 40C.
Likely · Within days
Europe will continue to face significant disruptions due to the heatwave.
Likely · Within days
Open Questions
- What are the long-term impacts of 'Godzilla' El Niño?
- How will governments adapt to future extreme heat events?
