Large parts of Spain have already endured temperatures of 44 degrees Celsius in recent days, and the heat has fuelled wildfires across Spain and France, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes. Experts say it would be no surprise if the 50 degrees Celsius mark was exceeded, either later this summer or next year, when the heating impact of the unprecedented El Niño building in the Pacific will be at its greatest.
Intense heat has gripped many parts of Japan, with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius in several areas. The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued heatstroke alerts for 18 prefectures, warning of an extremely high risk of heat-related illnesses.
"We will continue operating the dangerous heat alert system through October 21. We urge the public to take all possible precautions against heatstroke. In cases of life-threatening extreme heat, emergency alerts will be issued a day in advance. Once such an alert is announced, outdoor activities should be suspended," said Japan's Minister of the Environment, Hirotaka Ishihara.
