Europe Faces Major Heat Problem as Deadly ‘Heat Dome’ Smashes Records
The extreme heat is reportedly driven by an “Omega block” weather pattern — a bulge of hot air trapped between cooler systems, allowing temperatures to build day after day.
New Delhi: Europe is in the grip of a relentless, deadly heatwave that scientists warn is “not the new norm” but “the foothills of absolute catastrophe,” with temperature records expected to be obliterated this week and deaths mounting across the continent.
Record-breaking heat, rising death toll
France, the current epicenter, registered its hottest night since records began in 1947, with the national average temperature reaching 21.6°C. On Monday, Bordeaux hit 107.4°F and Poitiers reached 106.1°F, breaking records set nearly 80 years ago. One French town recorded over 111°F.
The heat has turned fatal. France’s Prime Minister said 40 people have drowned since June 18 as people sought relief in water. Three elderly people died near Bordeaux from heat complications, and two children aged 2 and 4 were found dead in a hot car in southern France Tuesday. Temperatures inside a sealed car can reach 70°C.
‘Omega block’ heat dome traps Europe
The extreme heat is driven by an “Omega block” weather pattern — a bulge of hot air trapped between cooler systems, allowing temperatures to build day after day. Meteorologists also call it an “African cyclone” or “heat dome” pushing hot Saharan air north.
