Europe faces deadly heatwave: 18 fatalities reported, including two children in France

A severe and record-breaking heatwave across much of Europe has resulted in at least 18 deaths, according to Reuters. France has been particularly hard hit, where two children, aged two and four, tragically died after being trapped in a hot car in Carpentras. Additionally, three elderly individuals between the ages of 80 and 95 passed away in the Bordeaux region.

Water safety has become a critical concern during this extreme weather. In France alone, 13 people have drowned over the past two days. Civil protection services are urging residents to swim only in designated, lifeguard-supervised areas.

European cities have seen unprecedented temperatures:

France: Temperatures in Bordeaux reached 41.9°C and in Poitiers 41.2°C, marking the highest levels since 1947.

Spain: Temperatures in San Sebastian approached 40°C.

Italy: A "red" (highest) alert was declared in 12 cities, forcing energy companies to deploy additional generators due to massive strain on power grids.

United Kingdom: Record-breaking temperatures for June (exceeding 39°C) are expected in the coming days.

Scientists attribute this phenomenon to an "omega-block" atmospheric system, which has caused hot air masses from the Sahara to stall over Europe. This has resulted in a lack of wind and sustained extreme temperatures. According to the World Meteorological Organization, the rate of warming in Europe is twice the global average.