27/06/2026 10:55 - Internacionales
The heatwave currently suffocating Western Europe has been classified by scientists as the most severe and extensive ever to affect this region. A detailed analysis by the World Weather Attribution (WWA) consortium, including experts from Imperial College London, concludes that this extreme event would have been impossible in June without the climate change driven by the burning of fossil fuels.
Dr. Theodore Keeping, an extreme climate researcher at Imperial College London and part of the WWA team, stated: "This is the most severe and widespread event to ever affect such a large area of Europe." The study highlights that just 50 years ago, when the planet was 1.1°C cooler, the probability of such a heatwave was drastically different.
The WWA analysis is categorical: the current heatwave would have been 2°C cooler in 2003 and 3.5°C cooler in 1976—years famous for heatwaves—due to lower global warming levels.
High nighttime temperatures that disrupt sleep are now approximately 100 times more likely than in 2003. Scientists warn that without urgent climate action, future conditions will be even more extreme, potentially making the current summer look relatively cool in retrospect.
Source: The Guardian
The heatwave has also impacted the sports world. The Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix, taking place this weekend at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, has officially been declared a "heat hazard" race by the FIA.
This is the first time this season such a status has been declared in Europe. Temperatures are expected to exceed 31°C, a threshold under which regulations allow drivers to wear special cooling vests beneath their fireproof suits. Alpine driver Pierre Gasly mentioned he prepared by training in Milan under similar conditions.
Source: The Guardian
Weather models predict temperatures will rise dramatically in parts of central and northern Europe over the weekend. Highs of 40°C or higher are expected in Germany and Poland on Saturday and Sunday, following similar temperatures across large areas of France.
Simon Stiell, the UN climate chief, stated: "Climate change is out of control, caused by the world's addiction to burning coal, oil, and gas. But the solutions are equally clear: a faster transition to clean energy."
Source: The Guardian
Alfredo S. Quiroga
