Europe is a popular vacation destination for many people looking to travel abroad. However Southern Europe may not be the place to visit right now because of the record high temperatures it has hit. The warmer-than-normal temperatures that have already scorched the area are expected to last for a week or more, turning Southern Europe into a desert.
While tourists usually choose to go for a holiday in Southern European hot spots like Croatia, Greece, Italy, and Spainmany may want to wait until the hot 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 the temperature is expected to continue to rise next week.
The cause of this heatwave is caused by Charon, an anticyclone, or high pressure area. Charon, formerly known as Cerberus, which is the name of the three-headed dog in ancient Greek mythology that guards the gates to the underworld, became ferocious. Those unprepared for the heat may suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, or other heat-related illnesses. Unfortunately, many have.
According to news.sky.com, more than 60,000 people died in Europe in the summer of 2022 due to extreme heat. The Barcelona Institute for Global Health and the French National Institute for Health conducted research that revealed that Italy experienced the highest number of deaths due to heat, which reached 18,010, followed by Spain, with 11,324, and Germany, which there are 8,173.
Travel warning
For those who want to vacation in parts of Europe affected by this heat wave, be careful. Not only the temperature is expected to reach, if not exceed the 2021 record of 48.8 C that occurred in Sicilybut these temperatures are dangerous.
The elderly, children, and other vulnerable individuals must heed the heat warnings set forth to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Outdoor activities should be limited for everyone, especially those considered vulnerable. Travelers should also be aware that many attractions have been forced to close temporarily for safety reasons. Therefore, for travelers looking to visit zoos, amusement parks, and other outdoor attractions, alternative plans may need to be made.
For travelers already scheduled to visit these extremely hot places in Europe during the heatwave, travel continues 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 the precautions set by the officials, to ensure everyone’s safety.
