Europe Soaring Temperatures: Heatwaves, Wildfires Raise Health Warnings

According to the latest forecasts, parts of Europe experienced challenging heatwaves and wildfires, especially in Greece and France.

Based on a recent report, at least 61,672 deaths were recorded due to heat-related illnesses last year. The extreme heat could put at risk outdoor workers and older people.

Soaring temperatures and heatwaves

(Photo : by ANGELOS TZORTZINIS/AFP via Getty Images)
A photo of wildfires in Greek island. Parts of Europe recorded soaring temperatures and wildfires that raised health warnings, especially in France and Greece. The forecast warned of possible heat-related concerns.

The latest weather forecast in France reported that a red alert was issued in southern parts due to record-high temperatures. The heat dome could contribute to the scorching heat in the country.

The forecast said that the challenging heat could damage crops and forests, increasing risks of possible fires.

As the grapes for wine harvest comes near in Rhone Valley, the vineyard can likely suffer from the extreme heat.

Drought conditions were also recorded in parts of Portugal and Spain. Residents were advised to look for cooler areas and stay hydrated to prevent heat stress and heat exhaustion.

In Greece, the strong winds and searing temperatures helped to unleash more wildfires in the region.

Firefighters were working 24/7 to extinguish the raging fires. Affected people near the Alexandroupolis were evacuated from fire threats.

Meanwhile, Turkey also reported the spread of fires in Canakkale. The authorities explained that the fires were under control.

In the United States, National Weather Service (NWS) advisory showed that dangerous heat could be likely in the following areas:

Plains
Central Parts
Midwest

Parts of the U.S. struggled with challenging tropical storms in the Southwest and extreme heat.

Tropical Storm Hilary is expected to unload heavy rainfall and flooding risks in Southern California, causing travel dangers and flooding concerns.

Also Read: Europe Soaring Temperatures: 61,672 Died in Heat-Related Illnesses Last Year

How to keep safe from challenging weather

Soaring temperatures are recorded in parts of Europe, bringing challenging heatwaves and wildfires. El Nino and climate change can contribute to troublesome heat.

The high temperatures in Europe sparked deadly wildfires in Greece. The heat conditions and strong winds brought wildfires that caused evacuations.

Here are essential reminders for communities to keep safe from deadly fire and challenging heat. Searing temperatures could likely bring heat-related health stress or heat exhaustion.

Check for the signs of heat-related health stress

Homeowners should also watch out for possible signs of heat-related concerns. According to the CDC, people should watch out for the following signs:

Headache
Confusion
High body temperatures
Dizziness
Fainting
Heavy sweating
Muscle cramps or spasms
Weakness

Limit activities or exposure

Limiting outdoor activities can prevent exposure to extreme heat. Staying indoors can avoid possible health risks.

Homeowners should not also leave their pets and children unattended inside hot vehicles. Car temperatures can soar, which could become life-threatening for pets even if with an AC system.

Watch out for wildfire concerns

The dry conditions and strong winds can help unleash deadly fires. It is best that people near the forests should observe the forest fire restrictions to avoid fire dangers.