A heat dome is a relatively new term associated with global warming, describing a persistent and slow-moving high-pressure system that traps extremely hot air over a region.
Western Europe is currently experiencing exactly such a phenomenon. The United Kingdom, Spain, and France have been enduring record-breaking heat for several weeks. Yesterday, temperatures in Paris reached 41°C (106°F), while some regions recorded up to 44°C (111°F). Similar temperatures were last seen in 1947.
The situation in the United Kingdom is only slightly better. Meteorologists have issued a red heat warning for only the second time in the country’s history. Temperatures of 39–40°C (102–104°F) are forecast in some areas, significantly surpassing the previous June record of 35.6°C (96.1°F) set in 1976. High humidity is making conditions even more oppressive, turning many cities into virtual steam rooms.
Dozens of people have already fallen victim to the extreme heat. In France alone, 40 people have drowned while attempting to cool off in lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water. Tens of thousands of households have lost electricity, and thousands of schools have been forced to close. Parts of the Paris Metro have become almost unbearable, with temperatures exceeding 50°C (122°F) at some stations.
Meteorologists warn that the extreme heat will reach Moldova over the weekend and early next week. Temperatures in some areas are expected to climb to 40°C (104°F).
