Europe in Flames: Heatwave Kills 4, Sparks Wildfires and Nuclear Shutdown

A brutal heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed four lives, triggered wildfires, and forced the shutdown of a nuclear reactor in Switzerland, raising alarm across the continent over the early onset of extreme summer weather.

Authorities in Spain reported that two people died in a wildfire in Torrefeta, Catalonia, which broke out on Tuesday and raged across 40 kilometers of farmland.

The fire was described by officials as “extremely violent and erratic,” fueled by storms and strong winds that complicated firefighting efforts.

Meanwhile, in France, Energy Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher confirmed two heat-related deaths and said over 300 people were hospitalized as temperatures soared past 39°C (102.2°F) in several cities.

The country is experiencing its hottest June since 2003, while Spain registered its hottest June ever, according to national meteorological agencies.

In Italy, red heat alerts were issued in 18 cities, including Rome, Milan, and Florence, where temperatures reached 39°C.

Weather authorities warned of sudden, violent storms in Sardinia, Sicily, and across the central Apennines. Emergency services remain on high alert, urging citizens to stay indoors and hydrated.

Switzerland was also affected, with energy company Axpo announcing the shutdown of one reactor at its Beznau nuclear power plant and the reduction of output at another due to high river-water temperatures, which are critical for cooling reactors.

In Turkey, wildfires have also been reported, with meteorologists calling the current heatwave “exceptional” due to its early arrival and intensity.

Environmental experts continue to link these extreme conditions to climate change, citing greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and industrial pollution as key drivers.

Scientists say 2024 was the planet’s hottest year on record, and 2025 is shaping up to follow suit.

“Europe is burning, literally and figuratively,” one climate analyst said. “This is not just summer—it’s a climate emergency.”

As Europe battles these intensifying heat extremes, national governments and the EU face renewed pressure to accelerate climate adaptation measures and disaster preparedness strategies.

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