UK and France prepare for another heatwave as western Europe sets new temperature record
Western Europe is bracing for its fifth heatwave of the season, with temperatures expected to reach 40°C in France and 36°C in the UK. Scientists suggest that 2026 could become the hottest year on record due to climate change and El Nino conditions.
Why it matters
Persistent extreme weather events are straining European infrastructure and public health systems, signaling long-term climate shifts.
French weather agency Météo-France is warning about temperatures approaching 40°C from Tuesday onward in southeastern France.
Boats are stranded in a side arm of the Rhine River that is running out of water in Mackenheim near Mainz, Germany on Aug 10, 2026. (Photo: AP/Michael Probst)
PARIS: The UK and France are bracing for the fifth heatwave of the season, adding to an intense stretch of hot weather that has repeatedly sent temperatures soaring across Europe since May.
National weather agency Météo-France is warning about temperatures approaching 40°C from Tuesday (Aug 11) onward in southeastern France.
And in the UK, an amber heat health alert for most of England will be in place beginning on Tuesday as temperatures are forecast to climb to 36°C later this week.
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