Western Europe heatwave shatters May temperature records as climate scientists warn of accelerating extremes

Summary

Western Europe is experiencing an unprecedented early-season heatwave, with the UK recording temperatures above 35°C in May—more than 2°C above the previous May record. Climate scientists describe the event as "astonishing" and "mind-bogglingly crazy," noting that such heat would be exceptional even in summer, let alone spring. The extreme warmth is attributed to the combined effects of a heat dome and climate change, with France also facing an unprecedented early-season heat event.