More climate records under threat as spring heatwave bakes western Europe
People enjoy a boat ride with Muiderslot as a backdrop during a heatwave in Muiden, the Netherlands, on May 25, 2026.(AFP)
Western Europe faced another day of record-breaking temperatures on May 26 as a heatwave pushed the mercury well above normal levels for May.
A so-called "heat dome" of warm air from northern Africa trapped under a high-pressure system over western Europe is behind the sort of heat not usually seen until high summer.
France's weather agency reported that May 25 was its hottest day in the month of May on record, with May 26 forecast to be even hotter, while the United Kingdom also posted unprecedented highs and Italy imposed restrictions on outdoor work.
