Germany recorded its highest-ever June temperature as a severe European heatwave spread eastward across the continent. Authorities issued extreme heat warnings while Italy expanded red alerts for major cities. The scorching conditions have disrupted transport, strained infrastructure, and raised fresh concerns over climate change.
Germany’s National Meteorological Service recorded a preliminary temperature of 41.3 degrees Celsius near Saarbruecken on Friday. Forecasters warned that temperatures could reach 42 degrees Celsius in some areas on Saturday. Meanwhile, authorities urged residents to conserve water as extreme heat covered nearly the entire country. Scientists said human-driven climate change made the exceptional temperatures far more likely.
The heatwave has already caused dozens of deaths in France and disrupted daily life across Western Europe. Temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius affected rail services, power generation, schools, and outdoor events. In Germany, organisers shortened the Ironman European Championship courses to protect participants. Italy also issued red heat alerts for 18 cities, including Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice.
Rail operators introduced special measures to reduce pressure on transport infrastructure. Deutsche Bahn allowed passengers to cancel long-distance bookings without additional charges because of the extreme weather. National Express also suspended services on part of its Rhine-Ruhr network as a precaution against heat-related disruptions. Officials warned that roads, railway tracks, and electrical systems remained under severe strain.
Meteorologists said the heatwave was driven by an Omega block weather pattern trapping hot air over Europe. The World Meteorological Organisation expects the system to shift toward Central Europe and the Balkans by the end of the month. Demand for electric fans and air conditioners has also surged as millions struggle with unusually high temperatures.