Brits heading to a cluster of popular European destinations have been issued a stark health warning, as a powerful ‘heat dome’ sweeps the continent – resulting in sizzling temperatures exceeding 40C
UK holidaymakers are ignoring red alert heatwave warnings – as parts of Europe continues to sizzle out of control.
While Brits may be desperate to top up their non-existent tan, temperatures across the Mediterranean have climbed to dangerous levels – exceeding a whopping 40C in select hotspots. Last month, a record-breaking temperature of 46C was set on one Saturday afternoon in El Granado, Spain – while France issued heat warnings in 84 of its 96 mainland departments.
Italy has also been impacted by what experts are referring to as a ‘heat dome’, causing temperatures to reach a stifling 38C in the bustling city of Rome. This is the same heat that swept across Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, last week – and has even made its way over to the UK.
In Barcelona, reports recently emerged that a woman died after spending a gruelling shift outside, cleaning the streets of the Spanish city. The shocking news follows data that found around 2,168 people have died from causes attributable to the heat in Spain alone this year. As a result, experts have urged Brits to exercise caution when travelling to the following hotspots this summer:
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Speaking to the Telegraph, Dr Stephen Wood of Northeastern University in the US, warned that tourists are particularly ‘vulnerable’ to heat stroke and similar related illnesses due to several factors. “Travel often involves a lot of walking and sightseeing, frequently in the hottest parts of the day, without sufficient hydration or rest,” he explained.
“They may also wear clothing that isn’t ideal for the climate or skip sun protection altogether. Plus, tourists might not recognise the early signs of heat illness, or they may ignore them in the excitement of exploring a new place.”
In contrast, locals who grew up in the Mediterranean have acclimatised to the heat much better. Many residents have been ‘shutting themselves away in dark houses’ during the intense sunny spells, rather than queuing outside for hours to enter museums and other attractions.
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Despite the warning, it seems Brits remain undeterred – with thousands of holidays being booked in July as part of last-minute deals. According to On the Beach, in the past 48 hours (from July 1) bookings to Europe increased by a staggering 23 per cent – and there was a whopping 47 per cent increase in bookings leaving within seven days after the booking was made.
If you’re travelling to the Mediterranean during the ongoing heatwave, it is advised you remain in the shade between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its hottest. “Wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter,” advises the NHS.
“Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.”
Has Europe’s heat wave put you off travelling abroad this summer? Let us know in the comments section below