Sandbanks has been named the UK’s most expensive seaside town again after a new survey found that the average asking price for a home is an eye-watering £1,282,565
Sandbanks is known for its white sand beach(Image: Getty Images)
City-dwellers dreaming of coastal escapes during the sweltering summer heat want to think twice before setting their sights on Sandbanks.
The exclusive Dorset enclave has once again been named the most expensive seaside town in the UK, with property prices soaring well above the million-pound mark.
According to new figures released by Rightmove, the average asking price for a home in Sandbanks is now £1,282,565 – making it the only seaside location in Britain where average house prices break the £1 million barrier. That figure is more than three times the UK average of £378,240.
Despite the eye-watering price tag, the data also reveals that even Sandbanks hasn’t been immune to the wider market downturn. Prices in the coastal hotspot have dipped three percent compared to 2024. But that hasn’t dented buyer interest.
The average asking price now reaches well into the million-pound mark(Image: Jonathan Buckmaster)
“Sandbanks now stands out as the only seaside spot with an average asking price of over the million-pound mark,” said Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove.
The figures reflect a broader trend as buyer demand is up eight percent in the UK’s most desirable coastal areas, even as prices drop. Across the top 50 most expensive seaside towns, average asking prices have fallen one per cent year-on-year.
Long established as Britain’s answer to Monte Carlo, Sandbanks’ allure lies in its rare mix of golden beaches, luxury properties, and close proximity to London.
Nestled on a tiny peninsula at the mouth of Poole Harbour, the town boasts some of the most coveted real estate in the country – and it’s a magnet for celebrities.
Harry Redknapp, Karl Pilkington, and Liam Gallagher are among the A-listers believed to own homes in the area, which is known for its upscale dining, sleek modern builds, and sweeping views of the Jurassic Coast.
Just two miles up the road, the nearby neighbourhood of Canford Cliffs also made the list, claiming the second most expensive coastal town spot.
Some mansions have direct access to the sea and their own private boats(Image: Jonathan Buckmaster)
Properties there command an average price of £974,635, despite a nine per cent drop from last year.
In third place is Milford-on-Sea, a picture-postcard village in Hampshire, where buyers can expect to pay around £728,460 on average.
While the south coast dominates the luxury end of the market, bargain-hunters should look north.
The most affordable seaside town in the UK, according to Rightmove, is Saltcoats in Ayrshire, where average asking prices are less than a quarter of a million pounds – well below the national average.
Other budget-friendly options include Peterlee in County Durham, further underlining the North-South divide when it comes to coastal property prices.
“Lower-priced seaside spots like Saltcoats and Peterlee offer home-movers a sea view at a fraction of the price,” Babcock said.
Fears of exceptional heat as Foreign Office updates advice amid wildfire concerns for British tourists
15:43, 04 Jul 2025Updated 15:45, 04 Jul 2025
Tourists shelter from the sun in Syntagma Square in Athens, Greece. Concerns are rising about a ‘heat dome’ hitting the country (Image: Getty)
The South of Europe is bracing for a Heat Dome, which is predicted to extend its reach to Greece, bringing with it heatwave conditions from Sunday, July 6, 2025.
Early reports suggest that this heatwave will be relatively short-lived, but temperatures are expected to soar to a sweltering 42 or even 43 degrees Celsius next week.
Wednesday, July 9, is set to be the toughest day, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. In some areas, such as Halkida in Evia, the mercury will hit 42 degrees Celsius.
Following a brief respite with cooler than average temperatures, the heat is set to return with a vengeance, as a five-day heatwave is forecasted, with high temperatures lingering for several days.
However, relief is in sight, with a significant drop in temperatures expected from Thursday, July 10 Keep Talking Greece reported.
Open TV’s meteorologist Klearhos Marousakis predicts a sharp rise in temperature from Monday to Thursday, July 7-11, due to a westerly current entering Greece, acting as a windbreak for the eastern mainland. He forecasts peak temperatures of 40 to 42 degrees Celsius around Tuesday and Wednesday next week.
From Saturday, July 5, temperatures will gradually begin to climb as the meltemi (summer northern winds) depart the area and the pressure difference decreases. The very dry wind levels are expected to persist until Friday, July 5.
The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice – with concerns rising about an outbreak of wildfires in the dry country. It said: “There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. Ensure that your mobile phone is registered to receive emergency alerts to be warned of wildfires near your location.
“Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly.”
To avoid starting wildfires:
leave no litter, especially not glass which is known to start fires
make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished
do not light barbecues
Causing a wildfire or a forest fire is a criminal offence in Greece – even if unintentional. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112.
Be cautious if you are in or near an area affected by wildfires:
call the Greek emergency services on 112 if you are in immediate danger
contact your airline or travel operator who can assist you with return travel to the UK
Meanwhile, Europe experienced its first major heatwave of the summer this week, with Barcelona recording its hottest June in over a century and Paris reaching scorching temperatures.
Samantha Burgess, from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, stated that the unusually hot weather “is exposing millions of Europeans to high heat stress”, with temperatures more akin to those usually seen in July and August.
Barcelona’s Fabra Observatory reported a record-breaking average temperature of 26C for last month, the highest since records began in 1914.
Ramon Pascual, a representative for Spain’s weather service in Barcelona, told the Associated Press that the “very intense heatwave” is undeniably linked to global warming.
Mr Pascual pointed out that the rising sea temperatures are not helping those living in the Mediterranean region, as they significantly reduce any cooling effects from nearby bodies of water.
Spain’s weather service reported that recent surface temperatures for the Mediterranean near the Balearic Islands are 5-6C above average.
Spain’s national average for June was 23.6C, which is 0.8C hotter than the previous hottest June in 2017.
Madrid was expected to hit a sweltering 39C.
In Paris, temperatures were predicted to reach a staggering 40C. The national weather agency, Meteo-France, placed several departments under the highest red alert.
Over 1,300 schools were either partially or fully closed due to the heat.
Visitors to the Eiffel Tower without tickets were left disappointed as the landmark closed due to the extreme heat.
Visitors were advised to delay their plans as the summit was temporarily shut down until Thursday for “everyone’s comfort and safety”.
Climate specialists are sounding the alarm, predicting that future summers could outdo all previous records, with scorching highs over 40C becoming an annual occurrence by the century’s end.
Italy’s health ministry has reported a heatwave gripping 17 out of its 27 key cities.
Florence felt the brunt of the heat on Tuesday, with mercury hitting 38C, leading to a city centre blackout due to a surge in power usage. Energy giant Enel confirmed that power was swiftly restored thanks to emergency systems.
Tragedy struck near Bologna where a 46 year old construction firm boss succumbed while working on a school car park, with state broadcaster RAI attributing his collapse to the intense heat, pending autopsy results.
In Soest, Netherlands, local fire services announced they’d be joining a water gun battle with a real fire hose, teasing on social media: “Bring your water pistol and swimming clothes with you, because you’re guaranteed to get soaked!”.
Portugal’s meteorological authority confirmed a record-breaking high for June in mainland Portugal, with Mora, west of Lisbon, scalding at 46.6C on June 29.
Meanwhile, Turkey’s firefighters are battling blazes for the third day running, leading to the evacuation of around 50,000 people.
Scientists say heatwaves and storms are becoming more intense due to human-driven climate change.
At least eight people have died across Europe as an early summer heatwave grips much of the continent, triggering health alerts and forest fires and forcing the closure of a nuclear reactor at a Swiss power plant.
Authorities in Spain’s Catalonia region said about 14,000 people were ordered to stay indoors due to two wildfires that broke out almost simultaneously in the province of Lleida.
In one of the blazes near the city of Cosco, “two people were found lifeless by firefighters,” the fire and emergency service said in a statement on Wednesday.
The exact cause of the fire was unclear, but the service said the recent heat, dry conditions and strong winds increased the intensity of the flames.
Tuesday’s fire in the Catalonia region burned several farms and affected an area stretching about 40km (25 miles) before being contained, officials said.
On Wednesday, Spanish officials reported two more people died due to the heatwave in Extremadura and Cordoba.
Spain is in the midst of an intense heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in many places, and several heat records were set for the month of June.
France also experienced its hottest June since 2003.
Its energy minister reported two deaths linked to the heat with 300 others taken to hospital on Wednesday.
Weather forecaster Meteo France said red alerts remained for several areas of central France, and Catherine Vautrin, the health and families minister, said authorities should remain vigilant.
“In the coming days, we’ll see the consequences, particularly on the most vulnerable, and I’m thinking particularly of the elderly,” she said.
Two men over the age of 60 also died from the heat on beaches in Sardinia in Italy, the ANSA news agency reported.
In Germany, temperatures were forecast to peak at 40C (104F) in some areas, making it the hottest day of the year. Fire brigades were also tackling several forest fires in the eastern states of Brandenburg and Saxony on Wednesday.
Storm warnings issued
Italy, France and Germany have also warned of the risk of powerful storms due to excessive warming in unstable atmospheres.
Violent storms in the French Alps late on Monday triggered mudslides, disrupting rail traffic between Paris and Milan.
The Swiss utility Axpo shut down one reactor at the Beznau Nuclear Power Plant and halved output at another on Tuesday because of the high temperature of river water.
Water is used for cooling and other purposes at nuclear power plants, and restrictions were expected to continue as temperatures are monitored.
Scientists said heatwaves have arrived earlier this year, spiking temperatures by up to 10C (50F) in some regions as warming seas encouraged the formation of a heat dome over much of Europe, trapping hot air masses.
Greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels are a cause of climate change, they said, with deforestation and industrial practices being other contributing factors. Last year was the planet’s hottest on record.
“Extreme heat is testing our resilience and putting the health and lives of millions at risk,” Inger Andersen, executive director of the United Nations Environment Programme, told the Reuters news agency.
“Our new climate reality means we can no longer be surprised when temperatures reach record highs each year,” she added.
Portugal, France and Spain all suffered through temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, but for many Brits looking to abroad, that feels preferable to staying put
15:53, 01 Jul 2025Updated 15:58, 01 Jul 2025
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Brits are ignoring ‘red alert’ health warnings and heading to the Continent en masse.
Thousands of Brits have booked holidays in the past 48 hours, with many boarding flights in the next seven days as part of last-minute deals, swapping the uncomfortable British heat for Europe’s scorching sun.
In arguably classic British fashion, a huge number of holidaymakers are ditching the mere 34C temperatures of the UK for something a little more sizzling on the Continent. According to On the Beach, in the past 48 hours, bookings to Europe increased 23% and there was a whopping 47% increase in bookings leaving in the next week.
Portugal, France and Spain all suffered through temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, but for many Brits looking to be abroad, that feels preferable to staying put.
A red alert has been issued in parts of France(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
This is despite the serious danger to life that is posed by the temperatures in parts of Europe right now. A record number of heat alerts are in place across France as the country and other parts of southern and eastern Europe remain in the grip of soaring temperatures.
Sixteen French regions, including Paris, have been placed on red alert for Tuesday, the country’s highest, while 68 others are on orange alert. Heat warnings are also in place for parts of Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, and Balkan countries, including Croatia.
In Barcelona, a woman has lost her life, allegedly after spending a gruelling shift cleaning the streets of the Spanish city. According to the newspaper El País, the cleaner was working in the Raval neighborhood of Ciutat Vella during the heat of the day. She spent eight hours outside, enduring temperatures above 30°C, according to Aemet.
So far this year, 2,168 people have died from causes attributable to the heat in Spain alone. Last year, 3,521 deaths were linked to extreme temperatures in the country, CLM24 reports.
Despite the clear risk of heatwaves as intense as the one scorching Europe right now, clearly many Brits feel things could be a little hotter. Bookings to Amsterdam and Paris reached record highs this Monday, with On the Beach recording a 178% increase in bookings to Paris year on year.
Perhaps they are attracted to the quality of heat, as opposed to the quantity of Celsius. The UK heat is famously muggy, sticky, and airless, with little breeze and minimal chance of proper cooling off at night. Homes aren’t designed for heat, and air conditioning is rare, leaving people tossing and turning through humid, sleepless nights.
In contrast, much of southern Europe is built for the heat. Even at 35 or 40 degrees, there’s often dry, baking sunshine rather than the suffocating humidity Brits face at home.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach, said: “It’s official, Europe is roasting and Brits can’t get enough of it. Let’s be honest, 35 degrees in Spain feels like a glorious bake in the sun, while 28 in the UK feels like trying to sleep in a damp greenhouse. As soon as Brits see Europe heating up, they book their almost immediate escape, because roasting under a Spanish sun is paradise compared to stewing in the UK’s clammy heat.”
“City break bookings have jumped by 32% in the past 24 hours as Brits rush to make the most of Europe’s scorching heatwave. It’s not just the beaches calling this time, urban getaways are booming too. After all, cities offer shady streets for exploring, cool museums and cafes to duck into, and air conditioning in abundance, making even the hottest days easy to enjoy.”
Uefa delegates will measure the temperature with a wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) thermometer at the end of the teams’ warm-ups.
Different from a normal thermometer, the WBGT thermometer accounts for temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover to determine the heat.
If the WBGT temperature exceeds 32C, cooling breaks – which can last between 90 seconds and three minutes – will be introduced for players during the match.
If the temperature is below those thresholds, the implementation of drinks breaks is at the discretion of the referee.
A heat warning has been issued by Uefa for all matches on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, with fans allowed to bring a water bottle up to half a litre in size into the stadium on those days.
Uefa has also encouraged fans to re-fill their bottles and cups in the stadium bathrooms, and to seek shade in the fan zones across the country.
Health and wildfire warnings have been issued by holiday hotspots across the Continent and also in the UK, as a ferocious weather front moves up from Africa and threatens life
Several heat alerts have been issued across the Continent (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Brits braving the Continent in the coming weeks should brace themselves for absolutely roasting temperatures.
Temperatures were tipped to reach a ferocious 42°C in Spain and Portugal this weekend, and are likely to edge even higher today. Road surfaces are beginning to melt in Italy, while Greece has been plagued by wildfires sweeping across the holiday islands in recent days.
The heat dome hanging over Europe is no laughing matter, with one tourist already having lost their life to heatstroke in Majorca. The roasting-hot front has blown up from Africa and looks poised to push thermometers even higher.
It’s unlikely the heat will relent anytime soon, thanks to the heat dome currently hanging over Europe. The meteorological phenomenon occurs when a high-pressure ridge traps a thick layer of warm air in one region, acting like a lid on a pot.
While a little sun, sea and sand might sound tempting, such high temperatures can be very dangerous.
Europe was on track to be absolutely roasted this weekend
The region around Seville in southern Spain was forecast to reach 42°C through the weekend, while the French Mediterranean coast pushed 40°C on Saturday, with similar temperatures in southern Italy and Sardinia. Highs in London could hit 35°C on Monday, potentially making it the hottest June day on record in the country.
In Spain, today is expected to be the hottest day of a heat wave that began on Saturday and set a record for June in the country, with 46 degrees in El Granado in the south of the country. The arrival of a warm, dry mass of Saharan origin is exacerbating the rise in temperatures to “abnormally high and persistent levels, both day and night, which could pose a risk to people,” the State Meteorological Agency warned.
UK health authorities have issued an amber heat alert for Tuesday covering London, the East Midlands, South East, South West and East of England. The UK Health Security Agency has warned that scorching temperatures could pose a risk to children, older people, and those with medical vulnerabilities.
It warns of “a rise in deaths, particularly among those ages 65 and over or with health conditions. There may also be impacts on younger age groups.”
The heat also increases the likelihood of intense storms. France and Germany have been hammered by ferocious rain, hailstorms and flooding, leaving three people dead. Among them was a child who was crushed to death by a falling tree.
The high heats pose a serious danger to people’s health(Image: Getty Images)
Amber heat warnings have been issued for many parts of Spain, with similar warnings in place for four departments in the south of France. In Spain, weather expert Nacho Espinos has urged people to remain indoors and avoid strenuous exercise.
A double alert has been issued in the Canary Islands due to extreme temperatures, with warnings affecting four of the islands. Weather experts say thermometers could reach 37C. On Gran Canaria, warnings have been issued for the rising risk of forest fires and the health dangers of high heat.
Authorities in Greece have been battling the wildfires (Image: Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)
In part due to the high heat there, Greece has borne the brunt of the wildfires in Europe so far this summer, with serious blazes breaking out in several areas.
A fierce blaze ripped through the area south of Athens on Thursday, leading to evacuation orders and forcing officials to shut off sections of the vital coastal route from the Greek capital to Sounion, home of the historic Temple of Poseidon and a key draw for visitors.
In France, firefighters were mobilised to tackle early summer fires as 84 of the country’s 101 administrative areas were put on a heatwave alert from today until midweek.
Storms have caused havoc last week in France(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Extreme heat can be deadly. In 2023, 61,000 people died because of Europe’s record-breaking heatwave. William Spencer, climate and first aid product manager at the British Red Cross, said: “Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and getting worse because of climate change.
“Sadly, we have seen cases already this year of the tragic impact high temperatures can have on human life. High temperatures make it harder for the body to cool itself and we all need to take care to manage the health risks of heat. If you are travelling to a country experiencing extreme heat, there are several steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe.”
The UK is also due to be scorched this week(Image: Alamy Live News.)
Temperatures have started rising rapidly, just as a new early warning system has come into force. Forecaster.health is the first pan-European, publicly available platform that predicts the actual mortality risks of temperatures for different demographics. Those planning a holiday who are concerned about the heat can use it to check how much of a risk to their health they are taking.
If you are heading on holiday in the coming weeks, make sure you know the forecasted weather so you can prepare suitably.
Parts of the UK could see one of the hottest June days ever as a heatwave, now in its fourth day, peaks on Monday.
Temperatures of 34C are possible in central and eastern parts of England according to the Met Office. UK temperatures in June have only exceeded this level three times since 1960.
Glastonbury Festival has advised people to leave before 06:00 BST to avoid the head while Wimbledon could see its hottest opening day ever.
An amber alert, in place since Friday, persists for five regions meaning weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service. There is also a “severe” risk of wildfires according to the London Fire Brigade.
The East Midlands, South East, South West, London and the East of England all fall under the amber heat-health alert and are likely to be subject to travel delays.
Meanwhile, Yorkshire and Humber and the West Midlands are under a less serious yellow alert.
The high temperatures mean all of these areas are likely to experience a rise in deaths particularly among the vulnerable, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
However it won’t be hot everywhere. “Cloud and some heavy rain will affect Northern Ireland and western parts of Scotland through Monday and temperatures will be suppressed to the mid to high teens,” Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lenhert said.
Night-time lows are only predicted to fall to 20C in some areas heading into Tuesday.
This is the second heatwave of the year. London Fire Brigade assistant Thomas Goodall explained that this is why the risk of wildfires is “severe” as well as due to low rainfall in recent months.
Guidance from the UKHSA recommends keeping out of the sun in the hottest part of the day between 11:00 and 15:00, wearing hats, sunglasses and suncream.
Local authorities have issued fresh warnings against the risk of wildfires and urged people to take shelter, as Southern Europe experiences the summer’s first severe heatwave and as experts link the rising frequency and intensity of soaring temperatures to climate change.
Acute heatwaves were recorded in Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal through the weekend and into Sunday, with locals and tourists alike battling the sweltering conditions.
Ambulances were also on standby near tourist hot spots.
Two-thirds of Portugal was on high alert on Sunday for extreme heat and wildfires, with temperatures in Lisbon expected to top 42C (107F).
In Lisbon, 39-year-old pharmacist Sofia Monnteiro told the AFP news agency that despite advising people “not to go out” during the hottest hours of the day, “we have already had some cases of heat strokes and burns”.
Several areas in the southern half of Portugal, including Lisbon, are under a red warning until Monday night due to “persistently extremely high maximum temperature values”, said the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA).
Much of Portugal was also on high alert Sunday for extreme heat and forest fires – as was the Italian island of Sicily, where firefighters tackled 15 blazes Saturday.
In Italy, a few regions — Lazio, Tuscany, Calabria, Puglia and Umbria — were planning to ban some outdoor work activities during the hottest hours of the day in response to the record-high temperatures. Italian trade unions pushed the government to expand such measures at a national level.
On Sunday, the Italian Health Ministry placed 21 out of 27 monitored cities under its highest heat alert, including top holiday destinations like Rome, Milan and Naples.
Hospital emergency departments across Italy have reported an increase in heatstroke cases, according to Mario Guarino, vice president of the Italian Society of Emergency Medicine.
“We’ve seen around a 10-percent increase, mainly in cities that not only have very high temperatures but also a higher humidity rate,” he told the AFP.
It is mainly elderly people, cancer patients or homeless people, presenting with dehydration, heat stroke, fatigue.”
Greece was again on high wildfire alert with the heatwave there expected to continue throughout the weekend.
A large wildfire broke out south of Athens on Thursday, forcing evacuations and road closures near the ancient Temple of Poseidon.
Greek authorities deployed 130 firefighters, 12 planes and 12 helicopters to battle the blaze, while police evacuated 40 people, with five areas under evacuation orders.
In Spain, locals and tourists were desperately trying to keep cool, as temperatures reached as high as 42C (107F) in the southern city of Seville along with other locations in the south and central parts of the country.
Southern regions of Spain recorded temperatures above seasonal averages, prompting health alerts and safety recommendations from authorities. The country’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has said that June is set to break yet another record, becoming the hottest such month since records started.
The ‘urban heat island’ effect
Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common across Europe’s southern region due to global warming.
A Lancet Public Health study published last year highlighted the increasing risk of heat-related deaths due to climate change. The study predicted that heat-related deaths could more than quadruple by mid-century under current climate policies.
While more people die from cold than heat, the study stressed that rising temperatures will offset the benefits of milder winters, leading to a significant net increase in heat-related mortality.
Scientists say climate change is stoking hotter and more intense heatwaves, particularly in cities where the so-called “urban heat island” effect amplifies temperatures among tightly packed buildings.
“The heatwaves in the Mediterranean region have become more frequent and more intense in recent years, with peaks of 37 degrees [Celsius, 100F] or even more in cities, where the urban heat island effect raises the temperatures even further,” said Emanuela Piervitali, a researcher at the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA).
Experts have warned that intense heat can affect daily life, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children.
Local authorities have advised against any physical activity during the hottest hours of the day, and recommended drinking plenty of fluids.
Temperatures are predicted to hit 30C for the second day in London today as a heatwave continues. The east of England and the Midlands are both forecast to see highs of 28C, according to the Met Office.
An amber heat health alert was issued for some areas on Friday by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) until 18:00 BST Tuesday, with temperatures set to peak on Monday.
This is the second amber alert in two weeks and means weather impacts are “likely to be felt across the whole health service”.
The head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA has urged people to check on those who are more vulnerable and take “sensible precautions while enjoying the sun”.
The alert stretches across London, the East Midlands, South East, South West and East of England.
A yellow heat alert, less serious than amber, has also been issued for Yorkshire and Humber as well as the West Midlands. It denotes “significant impacts” for the health and social care services.
On Monday, the UKHSA has warned, “Much of the country will see temperatures in the early to mid-30s” (C) at the height of the heatwave.
The country’s current record high for June rests at 35.6C, set in Southampton’s Mayflower Park in 1957 and met again at Camden Square in North London in 1976.
Darren Farmer, Director of Operations at London Ambulance Service has warned: “It’s really, really important to keep hydrated” and to “keep away from alcohol” in the heat.
Keeping out of direct sunlight in the middle of the day and taking your medication in a timely manner are also key, Farmer added.
Temperatures at Glastonbury festival, which is now in the last of its five days, are expected to reach 27C on Sunday. The hottest year for the festival was 2017, when highs of 30C saw dozens of people being treated by paramedics.
Southern Europe struggles with soaring heat as temperatures hit 40C, sparking fears of wildfires and health risks.
Europeans are braced for the first heatwave of the Northern Hemisphere summer, as climate change pushes thermometers on the world’s fastest-warming continent further into the red.
With temperatures expected to rise to 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit) in the Italian capital, Rome, on Saturday, the Eternal City’s many tourists and Catholic pilgrims to the Vatican alike have been converging around the Italian capital’s 2,500 public fountains for refreshment.
In France, with residents of the southern port city of Marseille expected to have to cope with temperatures flirting with 40C (104F), authorities ordered public swimming pools to be made free of charge to help residents beat the Mediterranean heat.
Two-thirds of Portugal will be on high alert on Sunday for extreme heat and forest fires with 42C (108F) expected in the capital, Lisbon.
Meanwhile, visitors to – and protesters against – Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos’s Friday wedding in Venice were likewise sweltering under the summer sun.
“I try not to think about it, but I drink a lot of water and never stay still, because that’s when you get sunstroke,” Sriane Mina, an Italian student, told AFP news agency on Friday in Venice.
Meanwhile, Spain, which has in past years seen a series of deadly summer blazes ravaging the Iberian peninsula, is expecting peak temperatures in excess of 40C (104F) across most of the country from Sunday.
Scientists have long warned that humanity’s burning of fossil fuels is heating up the world with disastrous consequences for the environment, with Europe’s ever-hotter and increasingly common blistering summer heatwaves a result of the long-term warming.
With peaks of 39C (102F) expected in the cities of Naples and Palermo, Sicily has ordered a ban on outdoor work in the hottest hours of the day, as has the Liguria region in northern Italy.
The country’s trade unions are campaigning to extend the measure to other parts of the country.
In Greece, the first heatwave of the summer arrived on Thursday when a fast-moving wildfire engulfed holiday homes and forest land on a section of the Greek coastline just 40km (25 miles) south of the capital, Athens.
More than 100 firefighters, supported by two dozen firefighting aircraft, battled the wildfire that tore across the coastal area of Palaia Fokaia. The flames were whipped up by high winds as temperatures approached 40C (104F).
The heatwave comes hot on the heels of a series of tumbling records for extreme heat, including Europe’s hottest March ever, according to the European Union’s Copernicus climate monitor.
As a result of the planet’s warming, extreme weather events including hurricanes, droughts, floods and heatwaves like this weekend’s have become more frequent and intense, scientists warn.
Wildfires have broken out in several European countries loved by British holidaymakers, with Greece, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Turkey and France all impacted as a powerful heatwaves roasts the Continent
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter and ELENA BECATOROS
07:30, 28 Jun 2025
Wildfires have been breaking out across Europe (Image: DIMITRIS TOSIDIS, SOOC/AFP via Getty Images)
Wildfires have broken out across Europe as the Continent battles with ferociously hot temperatures.
The mercury could reach a ferocious 47°C in Spain this weekend, while road surfaces are beginning to melt in Italy. Those in France, Portugal, Turkey and Greece are also struggling to deal with stifling, brutally hot days and nights.
As well as the heat being a danger to the health of locals and holidaymakers alike, with one tourist already having lost their life to heatstroke in Majorca, the risk of wildfires is sky high in countries across Europe, and have already broken out in several.
It’s unlikely the heat will relent anytime soon, thanks to the heat dome currently hanging over Europe. The meteorological phenomenon occurs when a high-pressure ridge traps a thick layer of warm air in one region, acting like a lid on a pot.
The impact of human-driven climate change has only made the risk of such heatwaves worse.
The roasting temperatures are not just a threat to life, but increase the chance of wildfires (Image: Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)
Greece
Greece has borne the brunt of the wildfires in Europe so far this summer, with serious blazes breaking out in several areas.
A fierce blaze ripped through the area south of Athens on Thursday, leading to evacuation orders and forcing officials to shut off sections of the vital coastal route from the Greek capital to Sounion — home of the historic Temple of Poseidon and a key draw for visitors.
As a dozen aircraft and helicopters swooped in to combat the blaze from above, they supported a ground operation of 130 firefighters and their volunteer counterparts near Palaia Fokaia, on the outskirts of Athens.
The coast guard announced that two patrol boats and nine private vessels were on standby in the Palaia Fokaia area, ready for a potential sea evacuation. Fire department spokesperson Vassilis Vathrakogiannis revealed that 40 individuals had been evacuated by police, while evacuation orders were issued for five areas in total.
The wider Athens area, along with several Aegean islands, is currently on Level 4 of a 5-level scale for wildfire risk due to weather conditions, with the heatwave predicted to persist until the weekend.
Earlier this week, it took hundreds of firefighters four days to control a significant wildfire on the eastern Aegean island of Chios. Over a dozen evacuation orders were issued for Chios, where the flames consumed forests and farmland.
Wildfires are a common occurrence in Greece during its sweltering, arid summers. In 2018, a colossal fire engulfed the coastal town of Mati, east of Athens, trapping residents in their homes and on escape routes. The disaster claimed over 100 lives, including some who tragically drowned while attempting to swim away from the inferno.
Authorities have been fighting the fires in Charakas near Athens (Image: Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)
Spain
So far, wildfires have been limited in Spain, but the threat is rising as the country braces for seriously high temperatures over the coming days. The mercury could reach a ferocious 47°C in Spain this weekend.
On Thursday, a forest fire broke out in the Talavera de la Reina region, creating a column of smoke visible from the city. A total of 10 vehicles — two of them aerial — and 38 personnel were called in to put it out.
The Canary Islands government has issued a warning for Gran Canaria starting this Saturday due to high temperatures across the entire island. There is a risk of forest fires at altitudes above 400 metres.
Temperatures in Gran Canaria are expected to exceed 34°C this weekend and will likely approach 37°C, with strong winds increasing the danger. The Canary Islands government is urging the public to avoid lighting fires — even in barbecues or recreational areas — and to avoid using tools or machinery that could produce sparks, such as chainsaws, brush cutters, or welders.
A pre-alert for heat has been issued for the rest of the archipelago, with temperatures expected to be around 30–34°C (86–93°F) on El Hierro, La Gomera, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, as well as on the eastern, southern, and western slopes of Tenerife, and 26–32°C (79–90°F) on the northern coast of Gran Canaria.
Fires broke out in Tenerife in May(Image: AP)
Portugal
Wildfires are serious business in Portugal.
Last year, there were 6,267 individual wildfires recorded, with 16 people losing their lives as a result. In total, 137,000 hectares were destroyed — an area four times larger than the previous year. So far this year, 22 people have been arrested for arson, according to Público.
The total financial loss last year in Portugal — including materials, biomass for energy, fruits, and stored carbon — reached around 67 million euros and affected 2.36 million cubic metres of wood.
While last year was, hopefully, an outlier in terms of wildfire severity, with temperatures nudging 40°C in parts of Portugal this weekend, blazes are likely.
Italy
The boot-shaped country is also facing the risk of wildfires this weekend, with unrelenting sunshine and highs nudging 40°C in the south.
Today, two fires broke out near Rome and in Dragoncello. Flames and smoke rose up, threatening to engulf several properties.
Smoke and flame rise as firefighters continue to extinguish the wildfire that broke out in Aliaga district of Izmir(Image: Anadolu, Anadolu via Getty Images)
Turkey
Wildfires broke out in eight provinces in Turkey on a single day this week. Most were in western provinces — areas where many Europeans travel on holiday.
All fires were brought under control after coordinated air and ground efforts. According to the General Directorate of Forestry, five of the fires began in rural areas and later spread to nearby forests. “Fifty percent of wildfires start in agricultural zones. Small acts of negligence can lead to major disasters,” the authority warned, urging the public not to “set our future on fire.”
One of the most dangerous blazes broke out in the Osmangazi district of the northwestern province of Bursa. Fueled by strong winds, the flames quickly spread from forested areas to nearby residential zones.
France has yet to be hit by major wildfires this year, but firefighters are on high alert this weekend.
The Bouches-du-Rhône is on orange alert, and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Vaucluse are on yellow alert due to the intense heat expected to persist into the weekend. Strong winds may make matters more difficult to control if a blaze does break out.
According to La Provence, the “risk of major fires is high.”
Let me know if you’d like this shortened or rewritten for publication (e.g., news website, print, or social media).
Those attending Glastonbury Festival have a warm weekend in store
Heat health alerts have come into force across most of England as the country braces for a second summer heatwave.
An amber alert covers the East Midlands, south-east, south-west, east and London – meaning various health services and the whole population could be affected by the heat, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
In Yorkshire and the Humber, as well as the West Midlands, less serious yellow alerts apply, meaning that the elderly and vulnerable could be affected.
Temperatures are forecast to rise into the 30s over the weekend, coniciding with Glastonbury Festival, before reaching a new high for the year on Monday, when the Wimbledon tennis championship begins.
Monday could be the hottest day of the year so far with a temperature of 34C, possibly 35C in London towards the Cambridgeshire area, according to BBC Weather. The Met Office says London could reach 34-35C.
That would make Monday the hottest ever start to Wimbledon too, exceeding the previous opening-day record of 29.3C in 2001 – although players and spectators can expect more comfortable temperatures in the 20s by the middle of next week.
The hottest day during Wimbledon as a whole was on 1 July 2015 when 35.7C was recorded.
PA Media
Tennis players, including Coco Gauff, have been practising at Wimbledon ahead of the opening
Temperatures will remain in the mid to high 20s for the 200,000 festival-goers descending on Glastonbury in Somerset this weekend, with a potential peak of 28C on Sunday.
Mark Savage, the BBC’s music correspondent at the festival, said shorts, sun hats, bikini tops and bottled water were the order of the day on Friday.
He observed no heat-related health issues – other than the occasional red nose and a few very sleepy children.
Although there was little shade at the Pyramid Stage and temperatures were set to soar higher over the weekend, there was plenty of free water and sun cream around the site.
Conditions are expected to remain dry with sunny spells – free of the mud baths of years past – but warm nights could make things for uncomfortable for campers.
Elsewhere in Britain, dry and sunny spells are forecast, with temperatures in the low to mid 20s this weekend. By Monday, Cardiff could match the 30C highs expected across large parts of England.
A heatwave, but for how long?
The sunny spell shows no sign of fading, with few places in Britain expected to see much, if any, rain by the middle of next week.
Large parts of England will officially enter a heatwave – classed as three consecutive days of a temperature above a threshold, which varies by region – around the same time. These heatwaves are expected to last four to six days, finishing on Wednesday.
Other European countries are seeing their own heatwaves too, with temperatures widely in the high 30s to low 40s. A scorching 44C is expected in Cordoba, southern Spain, on Sunday.
Several factors are contributing to this temperature increase, including hot air from a heatwave on the eastern side of the US and hot, humid air from the Azores, plus strong sunshine and building high pressure over England.
EPA
People were out in the sun at the London Fields lido this week
Parts of Suffolk are already in an official heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 27C at Santon Downham for three consecutive days. Many more locations will join them over the weekend.
Parts of England could see a “tropical night” on Sunday and Monday – a term used to describe a night when temperatures do not fall below 20C.
Monday’s heat will not be far away from the June record which stands at 35.6C, recorded in Southampton during summer 1976.
Passengers were forced to evacuate trains in south London during the 30C heat after a fault on one train brought services to a standstill. There were also warnings of a surge in excess deaths and 999 calls.
While it is hard to link individual extreme weather events to climate change, heatwaves are becoming more common and more intense due to climate change.
Scientists at World Weather Attribution – which analyses the influence of climate change on extreme weather events – say June heatwaves with three consecutive days above 28C are about 10 times more likely to occur now when compared to the pre-industrial climate, before humans started burning fossil fuels.
The heat health alert system has been used since 2023 by the UKHSA and the Met Office to prepare health and social care professionals for the impacts of hot weather.
There are four levels of warning – green, yellow, amber and red. Among examples given by UKHSA are difficulties managing medicines, the ability of the workforce to deliver services and internal temperatures in care settings exceeding the recommended thresholds.
Coastal blaze triggers evacuation orders, days after state of emergency declared over fires on Aegean island of Chios.
A fast-moving wildfire has engulfed holiday homes and forest land on a section of the Greek coastline just 40km (25 miles) south of the capital, Athens.
More than 100 firefighters, supported by two dozen firefighting aircraft, battled the wildfire that tore across the coastal area of Palaia Fokaia on Thursday, officials said. The flames were whipped up by high winds as temperatures approached 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in the country’s first heatwave of the summer.
Fire department spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis told reporters that 40 people had been evacuated by police, with evacuation orders issued for a total of five areas. A seaside roadway running across the affected areas was protectively cordoned off, he added.
The coastguard said two patrol boats and nine private vessels were on standby in the Palaia Fokaia area in case an evacuation by sea became necessary.
“We’re telling people to leave their homes,” local town councillor Apostolos Papadakis said on Greece’s state-run ERT television.
The cause of the fire was not immediately known, but the fire department spokesman said that an arson investigation unit had been sent to the area.
Local mayor Dimitris Loukas said on ERT television that several houses were believed to have been damaged by the blaze.
The wider Athens area, as well as several Aegean islands, were on Level 4 of a 5-level scale measuring the risk of wildfires owing to the weather conditions, with the heatwave expected to last until the weekend.
Early in the week, hundreds of firefighters took four days to bring a major wildfire under control on the eastern Aegean island of Chios, where a state of emergency was declared and more than a dozen evacuation orders issued.
The fire department said one woman had been arrested on suspicion of having contributed to the sparking of that fire.
Greece has spent hundreds of millions of euros to compensate households and farmers for damage related to extreme weather and to acquire new equipment to deal with wildfires.
It has increased its number of firefighters to a record 18,000 this year.
Scientists say human-caused climate change is contributing to extreme weather conditions and extending heatwaves for billions of people across the world.
As heat related power outages surge, things are expected to worsen, with AI-focused data centres sucking up power.
The heatwave currently blanketing two-thirds of the United States with record-setting temperatures is straining the nation’s power system.
On Monday, Con Edison, New York City’s power provider, urged residents to conserve electricity. It reduced power voltage to the borough of Brooklyn by 8 percent as it made repairs; it did the same to areas in the boroughs of Staten Island and Queens yesterday. Thousands also lost power as the grid could not handle the strain.
Comparable outages have been felt around much of the East Coast and Midwest including in the states of Virginia and New Jersey. In Philadelphia and Cleveland, power went out for thousands of customers after severe thunderstorms late last week, and has yet to be restored as the region faces high temperatures.
The national railroad corporation Amtrak reported delays on Tuesday due to speed restrictions caused by the heat on routes that went through Washington, Philadelphia and New York.
Power grid woes
This heatwave is bringing attention to the vulnerability of the power infrastructure in the US.
In the latest annual assessment from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), large parts of the US have insufficient power reserves to operate in “above-normal conditions”, including parts of the Midwest, Texas, New England and southern California.
Heat-related power grid strains have surged in recent years. According to a report from Climate Central released last year, there have been 60 percent more heat-related power outages between 2014-2023 than in the 10 years prior.
This comes amid new but growing pressures on the US power grid, including the prevalence of artificial intelligence data centres and the energy needed to power them. In 2022, in northern Virginia, Dominion Energy warned that data centres there used up so much energy that it might be unable to keep up with surging demand.
For AI data centres, that strain is only set to get more pressing as generative AI booms. It is expected that AI server farms’ power demand will increase to 12 percent by 2030.
There are also more immediate concerns of a cyberthreat from Iranian-backed “hacktivists”, which could target the US power grid at a vulnerable moment to avenge the recent US attack on Iran’s nuclear sites, CNN reported. The US power grid cyberthreat sharing centre has been monitoring the dark web for threats, it said, as the Department of Homeland Security issued a warning on Sunday about potential cyberattacks.
“Both hacktivists and Iranian government-affiliated actors routinely target poorly secured US networks and Internet-connected devices for disruptive cyber attacks,” the advisory said.
In 2023, Iran-linked hacktivists targeted a water authority in Pennsylvania with minimal success. In 2024, US authorities discovered that Iran-associated hackers were behind cyberattacks on US healthcare facilities.
Power grids are particularly at risk, according to a 2024 report by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which said that there are as many as 23,000 to 24,000 susceptible points in the US power grid systems that could be vulnerable to cyberattacks.
LAST week saw the hottest day of the year so far, when temperatures hit an incredible 33.2C in Charlwood, Surrey.
Chances are you were drooping in the heat, with low energy levels, unattractive sweating and a high possibility of sunburn.
18
There are many ways of heat-proofing and protecting your gardenCredit: Getty
18
The Sun’s Veronica Lorraine reveals how to help your outdoor plants this summer without splashing outCredit: Arthur Edwards / The Sun
Well guess what?
When your garden hits over 32C, much the same is happening to your plants.
They lose water through their leaves faster than they can absorb it, causing wilting, while the leaves themselves can get scorched.
They can also stop growing, as their energy levels are reduced.
But in the same way we splash water on ourselves, stay indoors and apply liberal coatings of suntan lotion, there are many ways of heat-proofing and protecting your garden.
And all of them are cheap or free – and very straightforward.
BE CLEVER WITH POTS
18
Group your pots and move them into the shade so that they give each other protectionCredit: Getty
18
B&M currently have some lovely light pink planters for just £2Credit: B&M
If you’ve got plants in pots, move them into the shade and group them together, so that they give each other protection.
Light coloured pots are best for container planting as they reflect the heat and sunlight, which in turn keeps the soil cooler and less prone to drying out.
Darker pots will absorb the heat, drying the contents much quicker and stressing the plants more.
B&M currently have some lovely light pink and pale green planters for just £2, while B&Q are selling deep white pots for £3.
Grow your groceries – how to grow tomatoes from tomatoes!
It’s worth remembering that pots – and hanging baskets – dry out really quickly in the heat and need much more watering.
When the weather’s this hot, water them daily if you can, giving them a really good soak.
Larger pots retain moisture better, so won’t dry out as quickly.
And while terracotta pots look lovely, they dry out much faster than other pots.
18
B&Q are selling deep white pots for £3Credit: B&Q
DON’T BE A WATERING WALLY
18
The best time to water is early in the morning so the water doesn’t evaporate
There’s a knack to watering in a heatwave – one of the most important tips to remember is not to water in the daytime.
The best time is early in the morning, before it starts getting really hot, so the water doesn’t evaporate. If that’s not an option, water when the sun’s gone down.
Morning is best, though, as slugs move around at night and love the damp soil.
And don’t water all over the plant, however tempting it is to remove the dust and return the leaves to their glossy former selves.
Aim directly for the roots, as wet leaves can cause fungus to form and, in really extreme cases, magnify the sunlight onto the leaves and cause scorching.
But mainly, it’s just a waste of water.
And give them a really good soaking once or twice a week, rather than a light water daily.
Experts reckon you should count to between 15 and 20 seconds as you water each plant to make sure the water soaks down through the soil to the roots.
LET LAWNS GO BROWN
18
Remember there is no problem with letting your lawn go brownCredit: Getty
18
Johnson’s Nature’s Lawn with Mowable Wildflowers (£12.99) creates a lovely blanket of bloomsCredit: Johnsons
It may not give the lush, healthy look that you’re looking for, but there is no problem with letting your lawn go brown.
If it’s healthy, it will cope and the green will return when there’s a bit of rain.
Also, if you’re currently thinking of laying a lawn, aim for a much hardier native lawn seed, like fescue.
This will withstand extreme heat a lot better than some of the more trendy varieties.
It’s also worth considering a lawn seed that’s mixed with wildflower seeds. Johnson’s Nature’s Lawn with Mowable Wildflowers (£12.99) creates a lovely blanket of blooms if you’re letting it grow longer in the heat.
It’s also best to raise your mower’s cutting level and instead of collecting cuttings, let them fall as mulch onto the lawn to keep in moisture.
TRAP WASTE WATER
18
Using a water butt connected to roof drainage means you can store rainwater to reuse in your gardenCredit: Getty
18
Argos currently sells a standalone 100 litre butt, with a tap and connecting kit, for £28
Save and store any rainwater to reuse in your garden.
A water butt connected to roof drainage is probably the best option, as it will capture all your rainwater run-off from the pipes.
But a stand alone butt is a great addition to any garden.
There are all sorts on the market at the moment, including ones that attach to walls, which are great for smaller gardens as they don’t take up valuable space.
Argos currently sells a standalone 100 litre butt, with a tap and connecting kit, for just £28.
If you don’t have room for a water butt, just leave a few brightly coloured buckets around to catch any rain.
Or, if you’ve got just a few pots around your garden, you could invest in some cheap self-watering plant spikes, which you fill up with water and stick in your planters.
They release water slowly, reducing the need for a daily soak.
Temu has a set of five for £2.97 – so just 60p a pop.
If you’re feeling spendy, you could splash out on a dipping tank.
They’re beautifully designed and act as an elegant water feature for your garden, as well as creating valuable water storage.
The Dipping Tank Company has a 60cm tank for £395 – not cheap, but it will last a very long time.
You could also set up an irrigation system, although these are also costly. A leaky hose can work just as well.
18
Temu has a set of five self-watering plant spikes for £2.97Credit: Temu
CREATE A SHADY OASIS
18
Create a shady oasis in your garden with just a few productsCredit: Getty
18
Dunelm’s Elements Grey Sail Parasol is just £15Credit: Dunelm
With a bit of careful planning you can create a beautiful, calming escape in your garden with just a few choice products.
A sail shade is a quick, cheap and easy way to zone off a corner of your garden.
Dunelm’s Elements Grey Sail Parasol is just £15 at the moment.
Put garden furniture underneath it to create a lovely, cooling retreat. Dobbies Esme bistro set in green is currently on sale for £79.20, instead of £99.
You can surround the area with pots of fast-growing bamboo, which will not only add shade, but a lovely calming sound as the wind rustles through the leaves.
It’s best to keep bamboo in pots, otherwise it spreads underground and can cause real problems. You can even be fined if it spreads to your neighbours’ gardens.
Or you could plant banana trees in planters to create a natural shady barrier around your seating area. They grow really fast and add a proper exotic, tropical vibe, while also protecting you from the sunshine.
YouGarden are selling Musa Basjoo, aka Japanese banana plants, for just £9.99 at the moment.
18
Dobbies Esme bistro set in green is currently on sale for £79.20Credit: Dobbies
18
YouGarden are selling Musa Basjoo, known as Japanese banana plants, for just £9.99Credit: YouGarden
WATER GOOD IDEA
18
Hydria Life sells lovely pipe-less moveable fountain systems that fit in any pot of 30cm for £99Credit: Hydria
18
Or you could buy solar powered fountains from Amazon for just £6.98
Why not add a calming, cooling water feature to your garden?
Studies have shown that the soothing sounds of moving water can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and promote relaxation.
Hydria Life offers lovely pipe-less moveable fountain systems that fit in any pot of 30cm or more for £99.
You can also buy solar powered fountains that you just pop in a dish of water, birdbath or pond from Amazon for just £6.98.
As well as helping you feel more chilled out, water features attract wildlife, including birds, insects and butterflies, helping to boost your garden’s biodiversity.
They’re also known to help block out unwanted background noise, such as traffic sounds.
PLANTS TO BEAT THE HEAT
18
Lidl has 40 litre bags of decorative bark chips for just £3.49Credit: Lidl
On a recent gardening trip to Venice, where it was topping 27C daily and only going to get hotter, there was a definite planting plan.
In many of the gardens I visited there were agapanthus, pittosporum, lavender, wisteria, jasmine, fig trees and great big Fatsia Japonicas.
They were bursting with colour, but most importantly had been planted because they could withstand the heat.
Other plants that will work well in UK gardens include geums, sedums, achillea, hardy geraniums, rosemary and salvias.
Remember to mulch your plants, which means covering the soil around them with a thin layer of protective material.
This could be wood chippings, well rotted manure, gravel, shredded leaves or special garden mulch.
It keeps the roots cool and moisture locked in, while also preventing weeds that can compete for water.
Lidl has 40 litre bags of decorative bark chips for just £3.49.
The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice due to a heatwave smashing the EU and has issued warnings for Brits visiting Spain, Turkey, Greece and Cyprus
16:13, 24 Jun 2025Updated 16:39, 24 Jun 2025
Heat related warnings have been issued for a number of European countries (Image: taniaphotography via Getty Images)
The Foreign Office has issued travel advice for Brits heading to Spain, Turkey, Greece and Cyprus as a heatwave sweeps across the European Union.
Northern Europe is currently enduring an early summer heatwave, with forecasters warning of soaring temperatures in the weeks to come. Here in the UK, we’ve also been feeling the heat, with thermometers hitting 34C on Saturday.
France’s national weather agency, Meteo France, has echoed these warnings, cautioning that the high temperatures put “everyone at risk, even healthy people.”
Portugal recently recorded its highest temperature this year at 40.5 degrees, while parts of Spain have seen the mercury rise above 42 degrees.
Volunteers are battling the flames in Chios(Image: DIMITRIS TOSIDIS, SOOC/AFP via Getty Images)
The situation is already much more serious in Southern Europe, with Chios in Greece in the grips of a fearsome wildfire at the moment. Locals have been evacuated after the tinder-dry island burst into flames over the weekend.
On its website, the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has issued warnings about extreme heat in four countries, including in Greece, where nighttime temperatures are sticking stubbornly above 30C in large parts of the country.
The FCDO has also issued heat-related warnings for Turkey, Cyprus and Spain:
Greece: “Greece can experience extreme natural phenomena such as earthquakes, wildfires, extreme heat and flash floods.
“Take extra care when planning a hike or walk, especially during higher temperatures than you are used to. Trails often lack shade and the quality of route markings can vary.
“Do not light fires as it is both dangerous and illegal due to the high risk of wildfires.”
Turkey: “Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Turkey over the summer months. Wildfires happen frequently in Turkey during summer.”
Cyprus: “The Department of Meteorology of Cyprus issues warnings for severe weather, especially during summer. Weather can sometimes cause travel disruption.”
Spain: “Temperatures in some parts of Spain can change very quickly. Take extra care when planning a hike or walk. Check local weather reports for warnings of extreme heat or cold temperatures.”
Bas Amelung, Wageningen University environmental systems analysis professor, forecasts that popular holiday destinations like Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey could become unbearably hot in summers to come.
“Countries such as Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey that currently attract the traditional ‘sun and sand’ summer tourists are likely to become too hot for comfort in the summer,” he cautions.
“People take decisions based on their perceptions,” Amelung further explains. “So if a large majority of holidaymakers thinks some European destinations will soon be ‘too hot’, they may well start adapting, either by going somewhere else in summer or by going to the same place in another season.”
In Chios, the government declared a state of emergency following the outbreak of the fires on Sunday, leading to several villages being evacuated. As of Tuesday, the wildfires are still raging, with hundreds of firefighters, aided by aircraft, tackling multiple blazes.
The fires have caused significant disruption, including power cuts, water shortages, and property damage. Indeed, as of 24 June 2025, wildfires continue to blaze on the Greek island of Chios. Hundreds of firefighters, backed by aircraft, have been battling numerous wildfires in various parts of the island for the third day running.
Glastonbury guests have been advised to pack their wellies as the annual music extravaganza kicks off tomorrow with the ‘wettest weather’ on the way after the heatwave
Wet weather is winging its way to Glastonbury on Wednesday according to the latest forecast (Image: Getty Images)
Wet weather is winging its way to Glastonbury on Wednesday according to the latest forecast before the annual music festival kicks off. Revellers can’t wait to camp out at Worthy Farm in Somerset to see the likes of Charlie XCX and The Prodigy take to the stage, however, they should pack their wellies – despite the country’s recent heatwave.
After the glorious sunshine we’ve been enjoying, Wednesday will see “the wettest weather” according to the BBC. Warning there may be heavy rain and thunderstorms, its forecast says: “Westerly winds have now pushed the heat and humidity away, temperatures have dropped and it feels fresher. Maximum temperatures for the next few days will be around 22C and overnight temperatures will be typically down to 12C. Unfortunately, on Wednesday is when we could see the wettest weather.”
Glastonbury guests have been advised to pack their wellies (Image: Getty Images)
It continues: “Warm and muggy air from the Bay of Biscay could combine with a band of rain coming in from the Atlantic to bring heavy rain and thunderstorms into the evening. At the moment it is a risk.”
The good news is that after Wednesday night it should be dry and it is possible that any storms seen tomorrow will be further east and so the rain won’t amount to much.
Thursday and Friday may be windy, but there will be some sunshine at times.
However, the best weather looks like it’s reserved for the weekend as the forecast predicts: “South-westerly winds will become lighter and with more sunshine it will be warmer. Temperatures could be a very pleasant 25C.”
Rain or shine, Glastonbury fans will be there in their droves, partying the day – and night- away as they descend upon the West Country for the star-studded festival.
Ahead of the shenanigans, one keen festival lover sparked a flurry of invaluable advice on a Glastonbury Festival Reddit thread after asking, “Give me your most unique/useful items on your packing list. Something that you swear by…” resulting in a whole host of savvy suggestions for this summer’s event.
Giving their tips for the festival, which is predicted to attract a whopping 200,000 ticket holders, one reveller replied: “Change of clothes to be left in the car. There’s so much joy in a fresh t-shirt and socks to drive home in.”
Another fan shared: “Not sure if this is my main answer, but today I’ve decanted some liquid soap into a little travel bottle so I don’t ever have to use that grim sanitiser stuff at the toilets (which apparently doesn’t kill things like norovirus anyway)”.
And offering an ingenious organisational hack, a third advised adding a “bedside table” to their Glasto gear for camping convenience.
They replied: “Small collapsible boxes from Ikea for keeping stuff organised in the tent. They’re fabric and super lightweight.
“Sooo helpful to stop me losing things somewhere on the tent floor every 5 minutes”.
Spending lots of time in the garden right now? A Dunelm sun lounger has dropped in price, and it’s great for kicking back on sunny days.
Usually, the lounger would come with a £79 price tag, but the deal cuts it to £55.30.
1
The Dunelm lounger reclines for instant relaxation in the garden
Amsterdam Charcoal Lounger £55.30 (was £79)
Several weeks of consistent hot weather in the UK means Brits have had the chance to spend more time outdoors soaking up the sun.
If you’re lucky enough to own a garden, that could mean simply stepping outside your back door without having to traipse to a park.
To fully make the most of your space this summer you’ll need some furniture, and a sun lounger is ideal for relaxing.
This Dunelm lounger is a comfortable option if you’re having a drink or reading, but you can also recline it for sunbathing or even to enjoy a mid-afternoon snooze.
The removable head pillow gives some raised support for the neck, making it that extra bit more comfortable, especially if you’ll be spending a couple of hours relaxing in it.
The Amsterdam Charcoal Lounger is great for having in the garden, but it’s also versatile enough to take with you on days out.
Thanks to the lightweight mesh material and foldable design, you could pop the chair in the car to take camping or to the beach.
Dunelm had a home and garden sale that ended this weekend, but the sun lounger is one of multiple items still on sale amongst the full price garden furniture.
As it’s not part of a timed sale, it’s not clear how long the £23.50 saving will last, but as with many Dunelm deals, there is always a risk of selling out.
With a 4.7 star rating, shoppers are full of praise for the garden bargain.
One shopper wrote: ‘’Another superb garden chair.’’
‘’Comfortable, adjustable – no assembly needed and a hugely satisfying price.’’
Another was impressed with the practical features, commenting: ‘’Very comfortable reclining lounger, well constructed, with an all weather covering.’’
‘’Perfect for relaxing in garden – tempted to buy a second one.’’
A third felt the chair was good value, saying: ‘’Better, smarter and cheaper than the expensive ones at the garden centre.’’
However, they did note the size of the chair, describing it as: ‘’very wide so takes up more space.’’
Amsterdam Charcoal Lounger £55.30 (was £79)
As much as Brits love the sun, a heatwave can be uncomfortable, and if the current weather’s got you searching for a quick fix, it might be worth taking a look at the best portable air conditioners.
The heat can make sleep difficult too, and investing in one of the best cooling pillows could really help with getting a solid night’s rest.
There’s also a great deal on a popular fan right now – the Shark Flexbreeze fan is now under £100, and has a handy cordless option.
Seville is a popular tourist destination in Europe and is famous for its hot weather – but it could be set to become a desert in the next few decades
07:00, 22 Jun 2025Updated 09:53, 22 Jun 2025
People cool off during a heatwave in Seville (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
One of Europe’s “hottest cities” is a major tourist hotspot, but recent scorching temperatures have left some scientists worried.
Sunny Seville is celebrated for its stunning architecture, pulsating nightlife, and, not least, its glorious weather.
With an enviable average of 12 hours of sunshine a day and pleasant temperatures around 21C in March, the Spanish city offers the perfect city break escape while England endures often drearier climes.
Come summer, however, the story changes dramatically. The city faces blistering heatwaves with mercury levels that can soar to a staggering 45C, often proving too much for many tourists.
In recent times, soaring temperatures have raised alarm bells among climate scientists who fear Seville could be on the brink of becoming a desert, dubbing it the “Iberian oven”.
In recent times, soaring temperatures have raised alarm bells among climate scientists (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Nestled at the base of nearby mountains, Seville’s landlocked position means it receives hot winds from Africa, which sweep across its plains. Weather experts are issuing stark warnings, suggesting we are “walking into unknown territory… the city is turning into a desert.”
The peak of the scorching heat typically arrives towards the end of July and into August, although this can vary depending on wind patterns. Adventurous souls keen to explore this vibrant metropolis must heed the risks, particularly during the torrid summers when threats of heatstroke and dehydration are ever-present.
August 2023 witnessed the mercury hitting an astounding 40C, with temperatures consistently sizzling in the high 30s throughout the season.
Travel enthusiast Huw Owen recommends spring and autumn getaways for their gentler weather, but reminds summer tourists to find shade from midday until 7 pm and enjoy the cooler evenings.
Meteorologists blame the unusually high seasonal temperatures on global warming.(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Seville’s breath-taking Cathedral and Alcazar Royal Palace serve as idyllic sanctuaries from the intense Spanish sun, allowing guests to explore without overexposure.
The British Red Cross has come forward with essential guidance for Britons embarking on sunny escapades this year.
Dr Ellie Murtagh from the charity has offered invaluable advice: “If you are travelling to a country experiencing extreme heat, there are several steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe. This includes wearing sunscreen, staying out of the sun during the warmest hours of the day, drinking plenty of water and drinking less alcohol. You can also help keep wherever you’re staying cool by keeping blinds and windows closed.”
It’s crucial to acknowledge that extreme heat brings significant health risks, particularly for the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions, so stay cautious and care for one another.
Research by consumer group Which? found two sun creams that failed its safety checks – plus others that others, including budget brands that passed with flying colours
Tests by consumer group Which? discovered sunscreens that failed its safety checks
A popular sun cream aimed at families with a £28 price tag has failed safety tests.
Consumer group Which? urged shoppers to avoid the product – Ultrasun Family SPF30 – while also revealing supermarket alternatives at a fraction of the price had passed with flying colours.
The results are especially timely, given Britain is in the grip of a heatwave and people will be rushing to buy sun block. Which? found the Ultrasun product – which comes in a 150ml bottle and is marketed as being “perfect for the whole family” and “especially suitable for children and those with sensitive skin” – failed to meet minimum UVA (ultraviolet A) protection levels. Ultrasun’s UVA score was 9.1 and 9.5 in a retest.
It needed to be 10 or more to pass. It did, however, pass for the alternative UVB protection. Another sun block that failed was Morrisons’ Moisturising Sun Spray SPF30 at £3.75 for a 200ml bottle.
Lidl’s Cien Sun Spray 30 SPF High was among given a ‘Great Value’ badge by Which?
It passed for UVA protection but came up short for SPF (sun protection factor) against UVB. Like the Ultrasun product, Which? labelled it a “don’t buy”.
As part of an annual exercise, the group carried out lab tests on 15 popular sun creams using what it says were industry-recognised methods. If a product failed on a first test, it was repeated. If it passed the second time, a third test will be done. But if a product failed the SPF or UVA twice overall, it became a ‘don’t buy’.
Ultrasun sun block failed UVA tests by Which?
Among those that passed was budget supermarket Aldi’s Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+, which costs just £2.99 for 200ml. Researchers found it protected skin from both UVA and UVB rays, as claimed.
At £1.50 per 100ml – six times less than Ultrasun – the product also earned a Which? Great Value badge. Another given the same rating was rival Lidl’s Cien Sun Spray 30 SPF High, at £3.79 for 200ml.
Morrisons’ Moisturising Sun Spray SPF30 failed the Which? test for SPF (sun protection factor) against UVB
Natalie Hitchins, Which? head of home products and services, said: “It’s really concerning that widely available sunscreens could be putting families at risk by failing to offer the level of sun protection claimed on the packaging.
While shoppers should avoid buying our Don’t Buys, our results prove that there’s no need to splash out to keep you and your loved ones safe in the sun as we’ve found cheap reliable options at Aldi and Lidl.”
A spokesperson from Ultrasun told Which? it was fully confident in its testing protocols and that its detailed testing processes continued to not only meet, but surpass industry standards.
It stated that its chosen testing protocol is one of the strictest available. Morrisons told Which? that it’s looking closely at the data and working with its supplier to carry out additional independent testing.
Aldi’s Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+ costs just £2.99 for 200ml
Full list
‘Don’t Buys’
Morrisons Moisturising Sun Spray SPF30, £3.75/200ml
Ultrasun Family SPF30, £28/150ml
Passes
SPF30 sunscreens
Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Suncare Lotion, £5.50/200ml
Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Suncare Spray SPF30, £5.50/200ml
Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Lotion SPF30, £7.90/200ml
Lidl Cien Sun Protect Spray SPF30 High, £3.79/200ml
Sainsbury’s Sun Protect Moisturising Lotion SPF30, £5.50/200ml
Superdrug Solait Sun Spray SPF30, £5.50/200ml
SPF50/50+ sunscreens
Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advanced Sun Spray SPF 50+, £11/150ml
Sainsbury’s Sun ProtectMoisturising Spray Lotion SPF50+, £5.75/200ml
Aldi Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+, £2.99/200ml
Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Suncare Lotion SPF50+, £5.50/200ml
Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Spray SPF50+, £7.90/200ml
SPF50/50+ kids sunscreens
Childs Farm Sun Cream Fragrance-Free SPF50+, £12/200ml
Soltan Kids Protect & Moisturise Lotion SPF50+, £5.50/200ml
