France, Spain and the UK issue heat warnings as Europe faces extreme heat

Authorities across western Europe have issued urgent heat warnings as a severe early-summer heatwave pushes temperatures into dangerous territory in France, Spain and the UK.

The alerts have already triggered school closures, transport disruption and public-health warnings, with officials urging people to limit exposure during the hottest part of the day.

France under red alert

France is facing some of the most severe conditions. Météo-France placed 49 of the country's 96 mainland departments under red alert and another 40 under orange alert on June 22.

Officials warned that temperatures in parts of western and central France could rise above 40C and remain exceptionally hot through the week. The heat has already forced widespread changes to daily life, including school closures or rescheduling in many areas.

Rail services have also been affected as authorities try to reduce disruption and keep people safe during the peak heat.

Spain's first heatwave of the year

Spain has also moved into emergency mode, declaring its first official heatwave of 2026. Forecasters said temperatures in some areas could reach 44C.

The heat has already caused visible disruption. A public screening in Madrid was cancelled because of the conditions, underscoring how quickly the heatwave is affecting public events and outdoor gatherings.

UK warnings expand

In the UK, the Met Office issued an extreme-heat warning for parts of southern England and Wales, with temperatures forecast around 38C and a chance of exceeding 40C in some places.

The UK Health Security Agency also issued heat-health alerts alongside the weather warning. Officials warned of heightened risks for vulnerable people and advised caution as the hottest weather peaks.

Regional impact and what comes next

The heatwave is affecting multiple European countries at once, with reports of disruption in Germany and Belgium as well. Meteorologists have described the event as unusually intense for late June.

Scientists and forecasters have also noted that extreme-heat events in Europe are becoming more frequent and more intense, adding pressure on cities, transport networks and health systems.

The main questions now are whether French alerts will be extended or downgraded as temperatures peak, whether Spain's heatwave will last beyond the current forecast window and whether the UK reaches 40C anywhere.

Officials are also watching for more school closures, transport cancellations and event changes before the end of the week, along with any health or mortality updates linked to the heatwave.