People across western Europe sought relief from fans and fountains Tuesday as a record heat wave gripped the region, with temperatures expected to climb higher. A heat dome of warm air from northern Africa has driven readings well above typical May levels. Some residents, usually resistant to air conditioning, said they were considering units for relief. In London, one worker noted the comfort of office cooling and mentioned plans to install a unit at home due to hot bedrooms. Crowds filled beaches, used handheld fans or umbrellas, and cooled off in fountains in cities such as Rome and Paris. The UK recorded its hottest May day at 35.1C in southwest London, surpassing the prior record set the day before. France also logged new May highs, with the national weather service forecasting peaks near 39C and the heat lasting through the week. Health officials urged caution despite no emergency. At the French Open, players and fans endured 33C conditions. Scientists link the intensified extremes to human-driven climate change. Experts called for changes in buildings and behavior to match shifting conditions. French authorities reported at least seven heat-related deaths, including drownings, while Britain noted four teen drownings since Sunday. Ireland logged a May record of 28.8C. A fruit grower in southern France warned of production drops and storage issues from temperature swings. Spain forecast continued high readings and tropical nights, while Italy’s Lazio region restricted outdoor work during peak afternoon hours. Vienna installed street misters for cooling. Europe has warmed fastest among continents since 1990.
