NEW YORK — A prolonged heat wave spanning multiple continents has broken temperature records in parts of Europe, North America and Asia in early July, with scientists and meteorological agencies warning that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events.
In the United States, authorities reported dozens of heat-related deaths as temperatures surged across large parts of the country in late June and early July, according to the National Weather Service and local officials. In New Jersey, state authorities said at least 20 suspected heat-related deaths were under investigation following consecutive days of extreme heat, while additional fatalities linked to heat stress were reported in Illinois and Mississippi.
Across Europe, national meteorological agencies confirmed multiple temperature records were surpassed during a late June heat dome that persisted into early July, affecting hundreds of millions of people. The World Weather Attribution group said the event ranked among the most severe heatwaves ever recorded in the region, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in several countries and widespread disruption to transport, energy systems and public services.
Germany recorded a peak of 41.7°C in Coschen, while the Netherlands and Hungary also reported national or all-time highs during the same period, according to European meteorological summaries. Officials in multiple countries issued heat alerts and imposed public safety measures, including restrictions on outdoor work and emergency cooling provisions.
The European heat wave was driven by a persistent high-pressure system, often described as a heat dome, which trapped hot air over the continent and limited nighttime cooling. Scientists cited by World Weather Attribution said such conditions would have been “virtually impossible” several decades ago without human-induced climate change.
The World Meteorological Organization and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts have separately reported that heat stress conditions have intensified globally since the 1970s, increasing health risks, particularly for older adults, outdoor workers and people in urban areas.
In the United Kingdom, authorities also reported record-breaking June temperatures and sustained marine heatwave conditions in surrounding seas, which contributed to reduced nighttime cooling and prolonged periods of elevated temperatures.
Meteorological agencies in several countries forecast that high temperatures will continue in parts of southern and eastern Europe and the western United States over the coming days, though some regions are expected to see temporary relief from shifting weather patterns. Authorities have urged continued heat precautions, including hydration and limiting exposure during peak daytime hours.
