Records smashed as temperatures reach over 42°C in parts of Europe

People cool off in Market Square, Nottingham during the heatwave. (Darren Green/ Shutterstock)

An intense heatwave is blanketing much of Europe as heat records have been broken in France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK this week.

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Paris set a new temperature record of 42.6 °C on Thursday, smashing the previous record of 40°C set in July 1947.

#Paris reached a new temperature record of 42.6 °C at 1632 and the temperature might increase further, says @meteofrance pic.twitter.com/rIslJtxQy6

— WMO | OMM (@WMO) July 25, 2019

Germany also sent a new national record as temperatures reached 42.6°C in Lingen, defeating the old record by 2.3 °C.

Twenty-five weather stations in the country recorded temperatures over 40 °C.

A day which will make #weather history, says @dwd_presse. #Germany set a new national temperature record (provisional figure) of 42.6°C in Lingen, defeating the old record by 2.3 °C. There were 25 weather stations above 40 °C #heatwave pic.twitter.com/euV1KmEuc3

— WMO | OMM (@WMO) July 25, 2019

While the UK is experiencing slightly lower temperatures, the sweltering heat has broken its July temperature record with a temperature of 36.9 °C at Heathrow in London.

The WMO predicts that the all-time UK record of 38.5°C may also be broken in the coming days.

The heat has been so intense in the UK that trains needed to be slowed in case rails buckle due the extreme temperatures, causing major delays.

The UK has broken its July temperature record with a temperature of 36.9 °C at Heathrow, London. @metoffice
says the all-time UK record of 38.5 °C may be broken #heatwave pic.twitter.com/fXx7u86VGB

— WMO | OMM (@WMO) July 25, 2019

In the Netherlands, temperatures reached above 40 °C for the first time in history, as a high was 41.7°C was recorded in Deelen.

Experts are warning to limit outdoor exposure during the hottest times of the day to reduce the risk of illness, especially for the elderly and children, who are most susceptible to heat-induced ailments.

If you’re already in Europe or are planning a trip, take a look at our tips for an epic European adventure, and don’t forget to factor in the heat! Sunscreen, breathable clothing, hats, and accommodations with air conditioning will be your best friends.

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With files from Kellie Paxian.