Europe is a popular vacation destination for many people looking to travel abroad. Yet Southern Europe may not be the place to visit right now due to the record-high temperatures it has been plagued by. Hotter-than-normal temperatures that have already been scorching the area, are expected to stick around for another week or so, making Southern Europe more like the desert.
While tourists typically choose to go for a holiday in Southern European hot spots like Croatia, Greece, Italy, and Spain, many may want to wait until the sweltering weather is over.
Temperatures in some of these hot spots are expected to exceed 40 C, which is hotter than anyone is used to. And temperatures are expected to continue to climb over the next week.
The cause of this heatwave is due to Charon, an anticyclone, or a high-pressure area. Charon, previously referred to as Cerberus, which is the name of the three-headed dog in ancient Greek mythology that guarded the gates to the underworld, has been brutal. Those who aren’t prepared for the heat could suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, or other heat-related illnesses. Unfortunately, many already have.
According to news.sky.com, more than 60,000 people died in Europe during the summer of 2022 due to extreme heat. The Barcelona Institute for Global Health and the French National Institute for Health conducted research revealing that Italy experienced the highest number of heat-attributable deaths, reaching 18,010, followed by Spain, with 11,324, and Germany, with 8,173.
Travel Advisory
For those wishing to holiday in the parts of Europe that are affected by this heatwave, precautions should be taken. Not only are temperatures expected to reach, if not exceed the 2021 record of 48.8 C that occurred in Sicily, but these temperatures are dangerous.
The elderly, children, and other vulnerable individuals should take heed of the heat advisories that have been set in place to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Outdoor activities should be limited to everyone, especially those considered to be vulnerable. Travelers also need to be aware that many attractions have been forced to temporarily shut down for safety reasons. So, for travelers looking to visit zoos, amusement parks, and other outdoor attractions, alternate plans may need to be made.
For travelers who are already scheduled to visit these extremely hot areas in Europe during the heatwave, travel continues to operate as normal. As long as precautions are taken, travelers can still enjoy their visit, but indoor activities are highly recommended. It is also important to follow precautions set forth by officials, to ensure everyone’s safety.