Kathmandu— Western Europe experienced its hottest June and July on record this year, with an average temperature of 21.62 degrees Celsius (70.9 degrees Fahrenheit), according to the European Union’s climate change monitor, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S). The temperatures were 2.79C (5.01F) above average and surpassed the previous record set in 2022, reflecting a persistent heatwave exacerbated by historically low rainfall and intensifying drought conditions across several countries. These extreme temperatures have impacted water supplies, nuclear power plant operations, and fueled devastating wildfires.

Record-Breaking Temperatures

The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that the combined temperature for June and July established a new record for Western Europe. Samantha Burgess, strategic lead for climate at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, noted that July 2023 was the third consecutive month of exceptional heat in the region. The persistent high-pressure systems trapped heat over Western Europe, amplifying widespread drought conditions and creating a feedback loop where dry soils reduce natural cooling.

Drought Conditions Intensify

Levels of soil moisture were significantly lower in July 2023 than during the severe drought experienced in July 2022. Several major rivers, including the Seine, Rhine, and Danube, registered exceptionally low water levels, impacting water supplies and irrigation. This led to reduced operations at nuclear power plants in Hungary and Slovenia.

Wildfires Rage Across Southern Europe

France and Spain both experienced record drought conditions which fueled devastating wildfires. A large-scale fire burned nearly 42,000 hectares (103,785 acres) in southwestern France’s Gironde department, forcing the evacuation of over 220,000 people. In Spain, the largest wildfire in recent history scorched almost 44,000 hectares (108,725 acres) near Madrid. The report also highlighted that smoke from these large fires can travel vast distances, impacting air quality in other countries.

Record Sea Surface Temperatures

In addition to the land-based heatwave, July 2023 saw record high sea surface temperatures outside of polar regions. The average sea surface temperature reached 20.96C (69.7F), surpassing the previous record of 20.89C (69.6F) set in 2023.

The report underscores the intensifying link between climate change, heat extremes, and drought conditions across Western Europe, with potential long-term implications for water resources, agriculture, and ecosystems.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.