Europe Braces for Another Scorching Summer

Europe is preparing for another intense summer as meteorologists predict extreme heat and other weather challenges. Travelers and local officials are getting ready for the rising temperatures.

Meteorologists warn that Europe, the world’s fastest-warming continent, will experience another scorching summer. Last year, large parts of southern Europe endured prolonged heat waves with temperatures reaching 48С, disrupting vacations and causing health issues.

According to Todd Crawford, vice president of meteorology at Atmospheric G2, this summer is expected to be similarly hot, especially from late July through August. The most intense heat is projected for southern Europe, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Greece, Croatia, and Italy.

Europe has been warming at twice the global average since 1991, with 23 of the 30 most severe heat waves occurring since 2000. The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service attributes this vulnerability to factors like the Arctic’s rapid warming and changes in atmospheric circulation.

Despite the forecasts, demand remains high for destinations that experienced extreme heat in recent summers. U.S. travel to Europe has increased, with cities like Rome, Paris, and Athens among the most searched on travel sites.

Cities and Travelers Adapt to Heat

Cities that were severely affected last year are implementing measures to protect residents and tourists. Athens, the first European city to appoint a chief heat officer, has categorized heat waves by severity and is naming them to raise awareness. The city is also increasing green spaces and creating cool public areas.

Travel advisers are adjusting itineraries to account for the heat. They schedule sightseeing in cooler morning and evening hours and arrange for air-conditioned transportation. If clients insist on midday tours, they shorten the duration and include breaks in air-conditioned places.

Some travelers who experienced last year’s heat waves are seeking cooler destinations like Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, and Finland. For example, flight searches for Tromsø, Norway, have surged by 85%. Looks like Norway’s fjords this summer are the best decision for a cooler experience.