Southern Europe is baking, thanks to a relentless heat wave with temperatures breaking records across Italy, Spain and Greece. This extreme weather, coupled with one of the busiest tourist seasons in recent years, raises questions for travelers looking to enjoy their vacations while staying safe. Here’s what you need to know if you’re heading to Europe in the coming days, or are already there.
What areas of Europe are being hit?
Italy, Spain and Greece are the countries most impacted by a high pressure “anticyclone,” which originated in North Africa, that’s causing the record heat. Temperatures as high as 118 degrees Fahrenheit (close to 48 degrees Celsius) are possible later this week in Sicily and Sardinia; northeastern Spain saw highs of 115 degrees this week, while parts of central Greece hit 109 degrees. The hot, dry conditions have also exacerbated wildfires in Greece, Croatia, Switzerland and Spain’s Canary Islands, forcing thousands to evacuate.
How long will this heat wave last?
Forecasts show the heat wave lasting for at least another week, through the end of July. However, this particular anticyclone — named Charon, for the ferryman for the dead in Greek mythology — follows closely on the heels of another high pressure system from the Sahara. (That one was called Cerberus, after the three-headed dog that guards the underworld.)
Are these areas prepared for this type of heat?
In general, European cities are poorly equipped to cope with extreme, persistent heat. Many have ancient architecture, particularly in areas attractive to tourists, and fewer buildings overall are equipped with air conditioning. According to a 2018 study, just one in 10 European households have air conditioning, compared to 90 percent in the United States. Some European countries have passed laws drastically limiting air-conditioner installation.
While some cities, like Paris, have worked to plant more trees and set up public cooling centers, experts say that these efforts have fallen short. A report published last week in the journal Nature Medicine attributed 61,000 excess deaths across the continent to last year’s heat waves; a worker in Northern Italy collapsed and died from exposure last week.
Is it safe to travel to Southern Europe?
Safety is largely an individual question, dependent on your age, underlying illnesses and physical conditions. Regardless, extreme heat comes with decided risks. You can and should take steps to mitigate your risk.
Dr. Myhanh…
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