Firefighters battle wildfires across southern Europe as extreme heat grips the region. Blazes erupted Sunday in France and Turkey, forcing evacuations from neighborhoods and campsites. Authorities from Spain to Italy warn residents to stay indoors and protect elderly people from dangerous temperatures. The summer's first major heatwave will grow stronger over the next few days. Weather services place dozens of regions under high heat alerts.
Temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius in many areas Sunday. Spain recorded readings up to 44 degrees in southern regions. France put 84 of its 101 departments on orange heat warnings for Monday. Italy placed 21 cities on extreme heat watch. Portugal issued red warnings for areas around Lisbon until Monday night.
Hospitals report 10 percent more heatstroke cases as people struggle with the brutal conditions. Emergency rooms treat mainly elderly patients, cancer sufferers and homeless individuals for dehydration and heat exhaustion. Scientists say climate change makes these heatwaves happen more often and with greater intensity. Cities face worse conditions because buildings trap heat and create hotter temperatures. Experts predict even higher peak temperatures in future years.
The warming Mediterranean Sea attracts dangerous fish species from tropical waters. Italian researchers ask fishermen and tourists to report sightings of four venomous fish varieties. French wildlife groups rescue struggling birds as care centers reach capacity. The heat severely damages local ecosystems and animal populations across the region.
Temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius in many areas Sunday. Spain recorded readings up to 44 degrees in southern regions. France put 84 of its 101 departments on orange heat warnings for Monday. Italy placed 21 cities on extreme heat watch. Portugal issued red warnings for areas around Lisbon until Monday night.
Hospitals report 10 percent more heatstroke cases as people struggle with the brutal conditions. Emergency rooms treat mainly elderly patients, cancer sufferers and homeless individuals for dehydration and heat exhaustion. Scientists say climate change makes these heatwaves happen more often and with greater intensity. Cities face worse conditions because buildings trap heat and create hotter temperatures. Experts predict even higher peak temperatures in future years.
The warming Mediterranean Sea attracts dangerous fish species from tropical waters. Italian researchers ask fishermen and tourists to report sightings of four venomous fish varieties. French wildlife groups rescue struggling birds as care centers reach capacity. The heat severely damages local ecosystems and animal populations across the region.
