BRUSSELS — Western Europe experienced its hottest combined June and July since modern records began, according to data released by the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.
The region recorded an average temperature of 21.62°C over the two-month period. That was 2.79°C above the long-term average and exceeded the previous record established in 2022.
Copernicus reported that unusually low rainfall and depleted soil moisture contributed to extensive wildfires and falling water levels in major European rivers. The Seine, Rhine and Danube were among the waterways particularly affected by the prolonged dry conditions.
Low river levels have restricted cargo traffic and reduced the amount of cooling water available to some power stations, forcing several facilities to lower electricity production or temporarily shut down.
Why it matters: Persistent heat and drought are affecting public health, agriculture, electricity generation and commercial transportation. Scientists warn that climate change is creating hotter and drier conditions that support larger and more destructive wildfires
