This summer, Europe is experiencing a severe heat wave, hitting record high temperatures, causing wildfires, and disrupting daily routines. It has even led to the temporary closure of the Eiffel Tower’s summit, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Let’s explore what’s occurring, why it’s significant, and what travelers and residents need to be aware of.
Europe’s Unrelenting Heat: What’s Happening?
Record temperatures are scorching Southern and Western Europe. Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and even parts of Germany and the U.K. are experiencing extreme heat. For instance, Portugal’s town of Mora hit a blistering 46.6 °C (115.9 °F) on June 29, a new national June record.
Spain’s June was the hottest ever, with southern regions baking at over 46 °C and Barcelona recording its hottest June in more than a century .
France has issued its highest-level “red alert” for numerous departments, including Paris, where temperatures are topping 40 °C.
Italy placed 18 major cities (Rome, Florence, Sardinia, etc.) under maximum heat alerts; hospital admissions are up 15-20%, and there have been confirmed heat-related deaths.
The Mediterranean Sea itself is undergoing a “marine heat wave,” with water temperatures surging 5-9 °C above normal reducing natural cooling and worsening humidity .
Together, these soaring land and sea temperatures create the perfect storm: what meteorologists call a heat dome, trapping scorching air over Europe.
Giant Icon, Tiny Summit: Eiffel Tower Closed
In Paris, the situation became symbolic. The Eiffel Tower closed its summit on July 1 and 2, citing visitor and staff safety. The closure was due to dangerously high heat. Paris recorded temps up to 36-40 °C (96-104 °F).
Key details:
The top level was shut, while the first and second floors remained open
Ticket holders were advised to stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and visitors without pre-booked tickets were asked to postpone visits
This is a rare move, besides pandemic and strike closures, the Eiffel Tower doesn’t often shutter for weather.
Heatwave by the Numbers: Europe Under Duress
To paint the full picture:
Spain: Southern regions reached 44-45 °C; wildfires claimed lives in Catalonia; Barcelona experienced its hottest June since 1914.
Portugal: The Portuguese weather authority, IPMA, confirmed that Mora reached a record-breaking 46.6 °C, the highest ever recorded in Portugal in June. Sea temperatures nearing 30 °C, reducing night-time cooling and worsening humidity.
France: Paris recorded temperatures between 36-40 °C; 84 departments under alert (16 on red alert); over 1,300 schools closed due to heat risk.
Italy: 17 major cities under maximum heat alert; hospitalizations rose by 15-20%; confirmed heat-related deaths reported.
Germany, UK: Both countries recorded their hottest June days on record; Wimbledon reported its hottest opening day in history.
Switzerland: A nuclear reactor shut down due to overheated river water, which could not provide adequate cooling.
Turkey: Massive wildfires led to the evacuation of over 50,000 people; emergency services deployed across coastal regions.
Overall, at least eight deaths (Spain, France, Italy) are directly linked to the heat wave. Italy alone saw a 15-20% increase in hospital admissions due to heat-related conditions.
Why Is This Happening Now?
Several climate and weather dynamics are converging:
Heat dome: A persistent high-pressure stall draws sizzling air from North Africa, fueling continental temperatures.
Mediterranean marine heat wave: Water temperatures are 5-9 °C warmer than usual, reducing night-time cooling and worsening humidity.
Human-driven climate change: Rampant greenhouse gas emissions are making heat waves more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting, especially in Europe, the fastest-warming continent.
Domino Effects: Wildfires, Infrastructure, Public Safety
Wildfires: In Catalonia, a blaze burned 6,500 ha and killed two farmers; Turkey evacuated 50,000 residents due to fires.
Infrastructure strain: Swiss nuclear plants reduced output; Italian power grids faced blackouts (Florence); rail sections closed due to heat or storms .
Health & safety: Italy banned outdoor labor during midday; schools in France and Germany closed; strain on hospitals surged.
Tourism Flip Side: Iconic Landmark Closed & Cooling Off
The Eiffel Tower closure is a literal and symbolic sign of how travel and tourism are being reshaped. Instead of basking in Parisian sunshine, visitors are cooling off at the Trocadero fountains across the Seine and many travelers postponed Eiffel Tower visits or opted for indoor sightseeing. Authorities are urging caution to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure at peak hours, seek shade or air-conditioned spaces.
What Can Travelers & Locals Do?
Stay hydrated : thermal stress is real.
Avoid mid-afternoon sun : especially in cities like Paris, Madrid, and Rome.
Protect yourself : wear light clothing, hats, and sunscreen.
Seek cool spots : indoor museums, fountains, shaded parks.
Follow government alerts : red and orange temperature warnings mean serious health risks.
Understand travel disruptions : attraction closures (like the Eiffel Tower summit) are real; check before booking.
Is It Safe to Travel Right Now?
Yes, but with caution. The UK Foreign Office hasn’t issued travel bans, although European health agencies emphasize the severity of this heat wave, likening it to July-August temperatures landing in June. Insurance coverage for heat-related cancellations varies, even mild advisories could affect refunds.
The Bigger Picture: Climate Alarm Bells
Scientists emphasize this event isn’t just a one-off, it’s part of a larger trend. The World Meteorological Organization warns of more frequent, longer, and more intense heat waves. Europe, warming at twice the global average, is especially vulnerable .
Heat waves are a growing threat to:
Public health : increased mortality and strain on healthcare systems.
Ecosystems : wildfires, marine ecosystem stress, droughts.
Infrastructure : power grids, transportation systems, nuclear safety.
Tourism : attraction closures, reduced comfort.
Final Thoughts: Cooling Off & Looking Ahead
Europe is currently facing intense heat waves, impacting everything from public safety to famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. The cancellation of the summit highlights how serious this crisis is and reflects a larger, systemic climate challenge. As travelers, residents, and global citizens, it’s vital for us to stay vigilant, modify our routines, advocate for climate action and sustainable infrastructure, and prepare for more unpredictable and very hot summers ahead. By focusing on safety, promoting sustainable tourism, and supporting efforts to strengthen environmental resilience, we can still enjoy Europe’s incredible beauty without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.
Read more: Wildfire in Western Turkey: Is Travel Still an Option?
