Europe’s deadly heatwave is linked to an omega block weather pattern. Learn how it traps hot air and why climate change may worsen heat extremes.
People cool off in the Trocadero Fountain next to the Eiffel Tower as temperatures rise during a heatwave affecting a large part of the country, in Paris, France, June 22, 2026.
| Photo Credit:
The intense heatwave engulfing
Western Europe, resulting in more than 40 deaths in France
alone, is being sustained by a weather pattern known as an omega
What is the 'Omega Block' causing Europe's intense heatwave?
How an 'omega block' is supercharging Europe’s deadly heatwave
Omega block: What is the weather phenomenon driving Europe’s heatwave
Warm air from Africa compressed in a dome: The 'Omega block' that’s causing Europe heatwave
The great overheating: Europe gets stuck with an ‘omega block’ weather pattern
The Dreaded 'Omega Block' Is Turning Europe Into a Giant Oven
The rare weather ‘Omega block’ behind Europe’s record deadly heatwave
CNA Explains: What is a heat dome? The weather pattern behind Europe's heatwave
More heat records expected as deadly 'Omega' heat wave grips Europe
Deadly 'Omega' heatwave grips Europe, shatters records; which countries are most affected?
