In Italy, a red alert has been declared for several major cities, including Bologna, Florence, Milan and Turin.

In Rome, pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square shielded themselves from the sun with umbrellas and other means, while the Pope held the traditional Sunday prayer from the Apostolic Palace.

Meteorologists explain that the extreme temperatures have been caused by a mass of very warm air moving from the Sahara toward Europe, known as the “African anticyclone,” which has created a “heat dome” over large parts of the continent.

Spain is also facing severe weather conditions. The AEMET meteorological agency has issued red and orange alerts for various regions, where temperatures are expected to exceed 39–40 degrees Celsius.

In Madrid, residents and tourists are using portable fans and seeking shelter from the scorching sun.

The situation is also critical in France, where dozens of regions, including Paris, have been placed under red alert. Authorities have ordered the closure of hundreds of schools and kept parks and public gardens open overnight to give citizens a chance to cool down.

In addition, restrictions have been imposed on alcohol service during public events in order to ease the burden on emergency services.

The heat has also begun to affect infrastructure. France’s railway company has warned of problems on the network due to rail expansion and damage to electric lines, canceling dozens of trips and urging citizens to postpone non-essential travel.

In Germany, where temperatures have reached as high as 38 degrees Celsius, authorities have warned of strong storms in the eastern regions.

In Berlin, heavy rainfall and strong winds forced the suspension of outdoor activities and the evacuation of spectators from a tennis tournament.

Meanwhile, animal rescue centers in Belgium are reporting a significant increase in cases of animals stressed by the high temperatures, especially small birds threatened by the extreme heat.

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