More climate records under threat as spring heatwave bakes western Europe

A heatwave gripped western Europe on Tuesday, shattering May temperature records across Britain and France. A high-pressure system trapped warm air from northern Africa, creating a "heat dome" that pushed temperatures far above typical spring levels. Britain’s Met Office recorded 34.8C at Kew Gardens in London, surpassing the previous May record by two degrees, while France’s weather agency forecast even higher temperatures on Tuesday, including 36C in some regions. The heatwave has already claimed lives, with French authorities reporting seven deaths linked to the extreme conditions, including five drownings as people sought relief in waterways. Beachgoers faced risks from strong currents and lack of lifeguard supervision, as many areas do not begin monitoring until July. Residents and visitors, including a Swiss tourist in London, described the conditions as alarming and a clear sign of worsening climate change. Scientists and meteorologists warned the heatwave is part of a broader trend, with climate change intensifying extreme weather events like heatwaves, droughts, and floods. The Met Office’s Greg Dewhurst called the rising temperatures "a good indication of climate change in action," suggesting such extremes may become the new norm. In France, fruit growers like Benjamin Boisson reported early harvests and potential crop losses due to erratic temperature swings, disrupting supply chains. The heatwave also affected daily life, including outdoor events like the Roland Garros tennis tournament in Paris, where players endured 33C temperatures. French authorities extended heatwave warnings until at least the end of the week, urging caution as temperatures remained dangerously high for the season. The event underscored the growing challenges posed by early-season heatwaves in Europe, with long-term implications for public health, agriculture, and infrastructure.