• Southern Europe experiences its first major heatwave of 2025, with temperatures surpassing 40°C (104°F).
• Countries including Italy, Portugal, Greece, and Spain issue health alerts and wildfire warnings.
• Health officials urge caution, particularly for vulnerable populations, amid rising temperatures and humidity.
• The ongoing heatwave raises concerns about climate change's role in increasing the frequency of such extreme weather events.
• Emergency services are on high alert for potential wildfires across the region.

The first major heatwave of the summer has gripped Southern Europe, pushing temperatures above 40°C (104°F) in several countries, notably Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal. Local authorities are issuing health warnings and emphasizing the increased risk of wildfires due to the persistent high heat. In Portugal, two-thirds of the country is on high alert, with Lisbon expected to reach 42°C (107.6°F) on Sunday. Similar alerts are noted in Spain where the southern city of Seville also recorded 42°C. These extreme conditions prompted health officials to advise residents to stay hydrated and avoid sun exposure, particularly among vulnerable populations, according to Al Jazeera and AA.

In Italy, the Health Ministry has issued a red alert for 21 out of 27 major cities including Rome, Milan, and Naples, where outdoor activities are being restricted during peak heat hours in regions like Lazio and Tuscany. Trade unions are calling on the government to extend protections nationwide, reflecting widespread concern for public safety. Additionally, emergency services have reported a spike in cases of heat-related illnesses due to humidity factors, raising alarms across the health care system, as reported by India Times and TRT.

Greece is witnessing significant wildfire activity, with a major blaze erupting south of Athens last Thursday, prompting evacuations near the iconic Temple of Poseidon and the deployment of over 130 firefighters supported by aircraft. This reflects both the immediate dangers posed by the escalating temperatures and the exacerbated climate conditions, as it correlated with increasing wildfire risks across the region. Reports from emergency services highlight the need for immediate response to the evolving wildfire threats, according to Al Jazeera and AA.

Health advisories recurrently urge the population to remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day, underscoring considerations for particularly vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. A Lancet Public Health study warns that, without significant policy changes, heat-related deaths in Europe could quadruple by mid-century due to rising temperatures exacerbated by climate change. This trend highlights ongoing public health challenges that arise from extreme weather, according to India Times and TRT.