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04th Aug 2018

Three dead in Spain from heatstroke as European heatwave set to get even worse

Rory Cashin

Those heading on holiday to mainland Europe should be prepared for life-threatening temperatures.

It is being reported that at least three people have died due to heatstroke in Spain following several days of record-breaking temperatures during the continents on-going heatwave.

The Evening Standard have the details on a middle-aged man in Barcelona was found in the street after he collapsed, as well as two other men, a road worker and a 78-year-old man, who also died from heatstroke.

And it looks set to get even worse, as some experts have said the highest temperature ever recorded in continental Europe (currently it is 48C set way back in Athens in 1977) could be topped this weekend.

Parts of Portugal have already recorded temperatures of around 47C, while parts of Spain have reached 44C before the worst of the heatwave has even arrived.

According to The Guardian, the wave of heat from North Africa has swept across mainland Europe has resulted in a mountain glacier in Sweden has melted so much that its peak is no longer the country’s highest point.

Additionally, while parts of England and Scotland are basking in 30C-plus temperatures, there have been weather warnings put in place, with the UK Met Office stating:

“Some flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible, leading to some damage to buildings or structures. There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus. Some short-term loss of power and other services is likely.”

Anyone heading to mainland Europe over the weekend or early next week is advised to remain out of the sun as much as possible during the peak hours – 11am to 2pm – and not to take part in any physical exertion while the temperatures remain this high.