A severe heatwave sweeping across Europe is set to bring record-breaking temperatures and widespread disruptions as it moves eastward. Tens of millions of people from Western Europe to the Balkans are expected to endure extreme heat this weekend, with some areas forecast to reach temperatures close to or exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

The heatwave, driven by a weather phenomenon known as an Omega block that traps hot air over the region, has already shattered records in countries including Britain, France, Switzerland, and Germany. On Friday, the German Weather Service (DWD) reported a preliminary national high of over 41 degrees Celsius near Saarbruecken, close to the French border. Forecasters in Germany warned temperatures could climb even higher on Saturday, possibly reaching 42 degrees Celsius, which would establish a new national record.

The intense heat has had considerable impact across multiple countries. In France, the heat has contributed to dozens of deaths among vulnerable populations and disrupted daily life by prompting alcohol bans, school closures, and the cancellation of many outdoor events such as street parties and music festivals. Similar cancellations have occurred in Germany and the Netherlands, although some events, including Pride Marches in Budapest and Munich, are continuing despite the warnings.

Public services have been strained by the conditions. Emergency responders in several nations report their facilities are overwhelmed, while German national rail operator Deutsche Bahn has allowed customers to cancel long-distance travel without fees due to infrastructure vulnerabilities like buckling tracks and overhead wire risks exacerbated by the heatwave and related wildfires. The Ironman European Championship triathlon in Frankfurt shortened some race segments as a precaution.

Environmental concerns have also surfaced, with France and Switzerland shutting down nuclear reactors to prevent overheating of river waters used for cooling. Agricultural sectors across Europe have faced heat-related challenges, and some cultural landmarks have temporarily closed.

Meteorological agencies have issued red alerts in countries including Germany, Romania, Slovakia, and others in Central and Eastern Europe. Slovakia reported its warmest night on record, with temperatures not falling below 26.3 degrees Celsius. The Czech Republic, Hungary, and Moldova are also under high alert as the heatwave continues through the weekend and into early next week.

Scientists and climatologists emphasize that such persistent and severe heat events are closely linked to human-driven climate change. They note that the current heatwave’s intensity and high night-time temperatures would have been almost impossible without global warming, which has increased the likelihood of these conditions by a factor of 100 within the past two decades. Experts warn that such heatwaves are expected to become more frequent, longer-lasting, and more severe as climate change progresses.

Looking ahead, forecasts indicate the heatwave will gradually shift eastward, impacting Central Europe and the Balkans toward the end of June and early July. Meanwhile, heavy thunderstorms predicted for Sunday may provide some relief in certain areas. As the continent copes with this heat crisis, demand for cooling appliances has surged, particularly in regions unaccustomed to such temperatures, underscoring the widespread challenges posed by extreme weather in a warming world.