Europe swelters as heat dome pushes temperatures above 40C

Western Europe is in the grip of an extreme heat wave driven by a so-called heat dome, a high-pressure system that traps hot air and blocks cloud formation. Britain, which is not usually associated with very hot weather, is expected to reach 38C this week, while France, Spain and Italy are bracing for temperatures above 40C.

France is under particularly severe strain, with more than half the country now under a red heat alert. Bordeaux could hit 42C, and schools have closed in some areas. In Paris, authorities banned alcohol consumption during the traditional Fête de la Musique celebrations over the weekend. Coastal towns including Narbonne, Deauville, Arcachon and Les Sables-d'Olonne began enforcing bans on going shirtless away from beach areas, with fines of up to 150 euros. Locals have also been cooling off in the Seine and in the Trocadéro pool near the Eiffel Tower.

Jean Castex, chief executive of France's national railway SNCF, said the rail network is being significantly affected. He warned that the heat can damage overhead power lines and warp tracks as metal expands. SNCF has mobilized 3,500 workers to monitor the network and put another 2,000 on standby for emergency repairs, and 71 intercity trains had been canceled through Monday. Castex also urged passengers in high-risk groups to consider postponing travel.

Spain has already recorded 40C, and the heat wave is expected to last at least until Thursday. Thirteen of the country's 17 regions are under orange alert, while the Basque Country is under red alert. In Madrid, residents and tourists tried to cope with fans and cold drinks while visiting El Rastro market. Germany, Belgium, Portugal and Italy are also expected to face intense heat, while Germany has additionally issued thunderstorm warnings in the east, including Berlin.

Meteorologists say the broader cause is an African anticyclone, a high-pressure system that traps hot air from the Sahara over Europe. Climate experts say extreme heat events are becoming more common as the continent warms faster than any other in the world. No official travel warnings have been issued, but authorities are urging tourists to avoid the sun between 11:00 and 18:00, use sunscreen, wear a hat and drink plenty of water.