Western Europe experiences record-breaking heatwave.

VTV.vn - Western European countries are experiencing an extreme heatwave this week as a "heat dome" phenomenon causes record-high temperatures in May.

(Illustrative image: AFP/Getty Images)

Spain and Portugal are experiencing the most severe heatwave this week. Temperatures in some areas of Portugal are reaching nearly 40°C. In parts of southern Spain, temperatures have risen to 38°C. France, Belgium, and the UK are all recording significantly higher temperatures than the average for May each year.

The French National Meteorological Agency has issued a warning of an early, noticeable, and prolonged heatwave, with temperatures more than 12°C above the seasonal average.

In many cities in western France, temperatures broke records for May, with differences of several degrees. In Nantes, for example, the temperature reached 35°C on May 25th – nearly 3°C higher than the previous May 2017 temperature record.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

Meanwhile, the UK Met Office warned of "a significant heatwave," with temperatures reaching a high of 33°C on May 25th. This temperature broke the country's May temperature record. Belgium, on the other hand, saw a high of 31°C.

The French National Meteorological and Climatological Agency (Météo-France) says a "heat dome" is the cause of the current record-breaking heatwave. Warm air moving from North Africa has become trapped under a high-pressure system over Western Europe. This effect is similar to a lid on a sealed pot, pushing the warm air downwards and causing affected areas to experience prolonged periods of intense heat.

(Photo: NurPhoto/IMAGO)

According to Météo-France, extreme heatwaves are becoming more common due to climate change. "We expect such heatwaves to occur more frequently," Météo-France stated. "They will happen earlier and be more intense."

The UK has issued health warnings due to the heatwave in several areas until May 27th – including an amber alert for the London metropolitan area. Warnings have been issued about a "significant impact" on healthcare and social services, and an increase in deaths among the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.

Spain issued a yellow heat warning for some northern regions on May 25th.

Source: https://vtv.vn/tay-au-hung-chiu-nang-nong-ky-luc-100260526153014781.htm