Europe heat wave pushes UK to 38.1 C, puts 135 million at risk
Why it matters: Scientists link hotter, more frequent heat waves to climate change as hospitals and fire-prone areas come under added strain.
A renewed heat wave intensified across Europe on Aug. 13, sending temperatures above 35 C in several countries and leaving more than 135 million people forecast to endure dangerous conditions. In Britain, the Met Office recorded 38.1 C at Kew Gardens in London, making it the country’s fifth-hottest day on record. France Meteo logged 38 C in Paris as much of France remained under heat alerts, while similar temperatures were forecast across parts of Italy and Spain. AFP analysis based on German weather service forecasts estimated nearly 340 million people in Europe, excluding Turkey, could see temperatures above 30 C. Scientists say human-caused climate change is making heat waves hotter and more frequent.