Deadly Heat Grips Europe, 40 Killed In France While Seeking Relief From Soaring Temperatures

Belgium: Europe is in the grip of extreme heat these days. Temperatures are continuously setting new records in many countries including France, Spain, Italy and Germany. The situation has become so serious that at least 40 people have died in France in the last few days. Most of these are people who had gone to take bath in rivers, lakes and other water bodies to get relief from the scorching heat. The continuously rising temperatures and death toll have increased the concern of European countries.

What is the reason for the situation being so serious in France?

France is currently among the most affected countries in Europe. In many parts of the country the temperature has crossed the 40 degree Celsius mark, while in some areas the mercury was recorded above 44 degree Celsius. Weather agencies have issued red alert in many areas. The government even had to call an emergency meeting to review the situation. Experts say that this kind of heat in the month of June is considered very unusual.

Why is trying to escape the heat becoming fatal?

According to French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, most of the deaths have been caused by drowning in unsafe and unmonitored bodies of water. A large number of people are going towards rivers and lakes to get relief from the scorching heat. The number of youth among them is high. The administration is continuously warning people to be careful, but despite this the series of accidents is not stopping.

Is only France affected?

This heat wave is affecting all of Western Europe. Temperatures have reached above 40 degrees Celsius at hundreds of weather stations in Spain. A red alert has been issued in many major cities of Italy. Germany has also recorded an increase in drowning incidents and heatwave-related cases. In many countries, school timings have been changed, public events have been cancelled and health departments have been instructed to take special precautions.

What is Omega Block and why does it cause increased problems?

Meteorologists are holding a weather system called 'Omega Block' responsible for this extreme heat. In this situation, the high pressure area remains at one place for a long time and traps hot air beneath it. Due to this, the sky remains clear, there is no rain and the temperature continuously increases. Scientists say that due to climate change, the impact of such incidents has become more serious than before.

Is there hope for relief in the coming days?

Weather agencies predict that the heat wave may continue in many parts of Europe for the next few days. There is a possibility of record breaking temperatures in France. The administration is advising people not to come out of their homes in the afternoon, drink enough water and take special care of children and the elderly. Experts believe this heatwave is a serious warning of the climate challenges facing Europe in the coming years.