**Title: More than 135 Million People in Europe Set for Temperatures Over 35°C Amid Heatwave**
**Date: August 13, 2026**
A significant heatwave is currently sweeping across Europe, with forecasts indicating that over 135 million people in countries such as France, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom will experience temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). This alarming trend is part of a broader climate pattern affecting nearly three in five Europeans, with approximately 340 million individuals expected to feel temperatures surpassing 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) on Thursday.
According to predictions from the German weather service and population data from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre, the ongoing heatwave marks the fifth of the summer for both the UK and France. Central and southeast England are bracing for temperatures that could reach as high as 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), potentially setting records for the hottest day of the year. In France, temperatures may soar to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), exacerbating the already severe conditions.
In the UK, the highest temperature recorded this year occurred on June 26, when eastern England reached 38 degrees Celsius. The UK’s Met Office has indicated that only average weather conditions for the remainder of August are needed to surpass last year’s record for the hottest year on record.
The extreme heat has raised serious concerns regarding public health and safety, particularly within the National Health Service (NHS). The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) reported that the oppressive heat is creating “impossible and inhumane” working conditions for healthcare staff and patients alike. Reports have surfaced of staff collapsing during shifts, suffering heat-related seizures, and pregnant nurses working in temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Many healthcare workers have noted the lack of air conditioning, fans, or adequate ventilation in their workplaces.
The heatwave is not only affecting health services but is also contributing to widespread drought conditions across Europe. Countries like France and the UK are experiencing significant water shortages, with shriveled crops and depleted rivers straining water supplies for households, agriculture, and the environment. These conditions have prompted governments to explore both immediate and long-term solutions to mitigate the effects of what is increasingly recognized as human-induced climate change.
As the continent grapples with these extreme weather events, the need for effective climate action has become more urgent. Experts warn that without significant intervention, such heatwaves may become more frequent and severe, posing ongoing risks to public health, agriculture, and overall quality of life in Europe.
The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the pressing challenges posed by climate change, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and proactive measures to address environmental issues. As millions brace for the heat, the focus remains on finding sustainable solutions to protect both people and the planet from the escalating impacts of climate change.