18 dead, schools closed, red alert issued: Historic heatwave turns deadly as extreme temperatures break records in…

A severe heatwave has gripped large parts of Europe, causing record-breaking temperatures, multiple deaths, school closures and emergency warnings across several countries. On Monday, temperatures surged to unprecedented levels in France, Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and Belgium. French authorities reported at least 18 deaths linked to the extreme weather, including two young children who died after being trapped inside a parked car. Meteorologists say the heatwave is being driven by a weather phenomenon known as the “Omega Block,” which is trapping hot air over much of the continent.

France Among Worst-Hit as Heat Records Fall

France has emerged as one of the countries most severely affected by the heatwave. According to reports, temperatures reached 41.9 degrees Celsius in Bordeaux, breaking the previous August record. In Poitiers, temperatures climbed to 41.2 degrees Celsius, surpassing a record that had stood since 1947.

Authorities have issued red alerts in several regions and many schools have either been closed or have adjusted operating hours to protect students from the extreme heat. Officials confirmed that at least 18 people have died due to heat-related causes.

Among the most tragic incidents, two children aged two and four died after being left inside a parked car in Carpentras in southeastern France. Prosecutors said the children were found unconscious by their mother outside their home. In another incident, three elderly residents aged between 80 and 95 died in the Bordeaux region after suffering health complications linked to the heatwave.

Europe Faces Extreme Temperatures and Emergency Alerts

The heatwave is affecting nearly every corner of Europe. Spain has recorded some of the highest temperatures, with thermometers reaching 44 degrees Celsius in several areas and touching 46 degrees Celsius in El Granado.

In Germany, temperatures in Berlin and southwestern regions have hovered between 38 and 39 degrees Celsius, prompting warnings of severe thunderstorms. The United Kingdom has issued amber weather alerts as temperatures in parts of England and Wales are expected to reach 38 to 39 degrees Celsius. London has already experienced temperatures around 35 degrees Celsius.

Italy has declared red alerts in major cities including Milan, Florence, Turin and Rome, where temperatures have risen to between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius. Belgium is also experiencing unusually hot weather, with temperatures remaining above 30 degrees Celsius and forecasts suggesting further increases.

What Is the Omega Block Driving the Heatwave?

Climate experts say the ongoing heatwave is linked to a weather pattern known as the “Omega Block.” Claire Barnes, a weather and climate researcher at Imperial College London, explained that the phenomenon gets its name because it resembles the Greek letter Omega. It forms when a large mass of hot air becomes trapped between cooler air systems on both sides.

Scientists warn that Europe is warming faster than most other parts of the world. A report by the World Meteorological Organization found that Europe’s rate of temperature increase is more than double the global average.

The heatwave has also led to a rise in water-related accidents. French civil protection officials reported that 13 people drowned between Sunday and Monday as many residents sought relief from the heat by swimming. Authorities are urging people to stay indoors during peak temperatures, remain hydrated and follow official safety advisories as the extreme weather continues across the continent.