European heatwave: What’s causing it and is climate change to blame?

While we can slow down the rate of global warming, the effects of climate change will continue to be experienced in the future

A man refreshes his thirst at a fountain in Rome on Monday, while scorching temperatures grip central Italy with Rome at the top of the red alert list as one of the hottest cities in the country. Picture: AP/Gregorio Borgia

Europe is currently in the midst of a heatwave. Italy, in particular, is expected to face blistering heat, with temperatures projected to reach 40℃ to 45℃. There’s even a chance that the current European temperature record of 48.8℃, set in Sicily in 2021, could be surpassed.

Searing temperatures have spread to other countries in southern and eastern Europe, including France, Spain, Poland and Greece. The heat will complicate the travel plans of those heading to popular holiday destinations across the region.