A series of exceptional weather phenomena is causing high temperatures, especially on the Iberian Peninsula. This is an interconnected system of complex processes.
The current warming of the northern Atlantic is particularly striking. Although it is normal for the northern hemisphere to warm during the summer months, the current warming is above average. For several months already, the water surface temperatures have been above the usual values for the current season. The recent exceptional warming can be seen on our extreme forecast map on the one hand and our temperature anomaly weather map on the other.
There are many reasons for increasing temperatures, and most of them are closely related. According to experts, the reduced amount of cooling aerosols in the air and changes in global wind systems are just a few examples. Climate change is important, leading to global warming that harms atmospheric systems. For example, the warming of the oceans can lead to more water evaporating, increasing the potential for more violent storms. It also encourages coral bleaching, negatively affecting marine ecosystems. In addition, less CO2 can be stored in the water, which leads to outgassing and further boosts the greenhouse effect. These are only a few examples that show the interactions.
Warm Atlantic water temperatures also affect the mainland of Europe, causing high temperatures and heavy rainfalls. Temperatures are currently above average in most parts of Europe, which can also be seen on our temperature anomaly map. The Iberian Peninsula is now particularly affected. It is currently experiencing a heat wave, with temperatures of up to 37°C predicted for Madrid at the beginning of next week. In Seville, temperatures are even predicted to reach 44°C. But even further north (e.g. in Munich), temperatures of up to 35°C are expected. The graphic shows the temperature map for the coming days.
Especially in cities, significantly higher temperatures can be reached. These local differences can be analysed well using heat maps, which also help to find cooler places within the city. These maps are globally available for selected cities.
