Western Europe Braces for 45°C Heatwave as Saharan Air Threatens June Records
Updated
Updated · Severe Weather Europe · Jun 17
Western Europe Braces for 45°C Heatwave as Saharan Air Threatens June Records
3 articles · Updated · Severe Weather Europe · Jun 17
Summary
Temperatures up to 45°C are forecast in parts of Iberia and France early next week as an early-season heatwave spreads across Western Europe.
A strengthening heat dome and upper-level ridge from Northwest Africa are trapping Saharan air, pushing readings 10-15°C above seasonal norms and keeping the pattern locked in through late June.
France faces the most extreme conditions, with some models showing 41-44°C on Monday across broad central and western areas, potentially challenging regional June records.
Spain and Portugal are already in the upper 30s, while Benelux, western Germany and southern England are expected to reach the low-to-mid 30s as the hot air expands north and east.
Exceptionally dry soils after Europe’s late-May hot spell could accelerate surface heating further, worsening drought and raising wildfire risk as the heat lingers.