Kathmandu— Agricultural producers throughout the European Union are reporting substantial drops in crop yields following a summer of record-breaking heatwaves, with economists predicting rising food costs in the coming months. The EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service recorded June and July as the hottest on record for western Europe, warning that high temperatures could persist through August and September. Impacts are being felt across multiple nations, from France and Italy to Spain, Germany, and Poland, affecting vegetables, grains, rice, livestock, and egg production.

Widespread Crop Failures Reported

Analysts at Zurich Insurance Group and several European banks estimate that the heatwaves could cost the EU between €50 billion and €180 billion. Poland’s Puls Biznesu outlet predicted last month that persistent drought may force the country to increase its reliance on food imports.

The economic consequences extend beyond immediate agricultural losses, potentially impacting food processing industries and consumer prices throughout the region.

The situation remains fluid as Europe heads into late summer and early autumn, with continued monitoring of weather patterns crucial for assessing the full extent of the damage and potential mitigation strategies.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.