Severe sunshine in Madrid, Spain, May 29, 2025. Photo: Xinhua/VNA

The Spanish Meteorological Agency warned that many areas may have temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Barcelona City Council has activated an emergency heat plan, opened air-conditioned spaces to the public until mid-September. In the capital Madrid, which is known for its sweltering summers, residents say the current temperatures are beyond their tolerance.

"There is no beach in Madrid and few swimming pools. I find it quite uncomfortable because I am always sweating."

"The weather is really hot, which makes me feel exhausted. Every day, I try to go out to work but it is too hot. I always have to carry a bottle of water with me, trying to overcome the heat."

Heat waves also hit Greece when the temperature sometimes exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. A hotline has been set up for medical advice. The government has prohibited construction and delivery workers from working outdoors from 9am to 2pm, encouraged remote working, called on people to drink enough water and avoid alcoholic beverages.

The risk of forest fires in Greece is at an alarming level, particularly in the central and southern regions. Firefighters are on standby. Authorities have advised people to limit their time outdoors. At popular tourist destinations such as the Acropolis in Athens, visitors are taking every measure to combat the intense heat. Air-conditioned shopping malls have been opened for residents and visitors to escape the heat.

Deputy Mayor of Athens Olga Dourou said, "To cope with the high temperatures, Athens has opened seven community centers. One in each district, open from 9am to 9pm. We welcome Greeks and tourists who need a break from the heat."

In the UK, temperatures are forecast to reach 30 degrees Celsius in the coming days. The Met Office has issued an “orange” warning, the second highest level, for London, the East Midlands, the South East, the South West and the East of England. This is the second orange alert in two weeks, raising concerns about public health, especially for the elderly and children.

Climate experts say Europe is facing earlier and more frequent heatwaves in recent years. European countries are encouraged to take early adaptation measures and protect communities from the increasingly obvious impacts of climate change.