Heatwaves will get worse until emissions fall

The heatwave in southern Europe reflects what has been observed by scientists over the last few years, which is that Europe has been warming faster than other continents in recent decades. The heatwave is being caused by a stable high pressure system over the southwest of the continent and is likely to be in part driven by climate change. Peak temperatures — which are around 10C to 15C higher than average — could yet reach the mid-40s in parts of southern Europe and up to 50C in north Africa.