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Europe's Hottest Summer Shuts Power, Ocean Heat Sets Record

8/10/2026

Summary

Europe Sizzles

Western Europe recorded its hottest June-July, averaging 21.62 °C—2.79 °C above the 1991-2020 norm.
A third and fourth heatwave hit since May, while a fifth is forecast for August.
Low flows in the Seine, Rhine and Danube forced shutdowns of coal plants and Hungary’s nuclear reactor.
Heat-related deaths topped 25,000 in Europe, which ECMWF climate lead Samantha Burgess linked to a high-pressure ridge and a “Super” El Niño amplifying the heat.

Summary

Ocean Sets Record

July 2026 set a global ocean heat record with an average sea-surface temperature of 20.96 °C, beating 2023’s 20.89 °C.
Record marine heatwaves erupted along the Atlantic coast and western Mediterranean, stressing ecosystems.
Thermal expansion now accounts for about one-third of sea-level rise, while higher temperatures increase evaporation and intensify tropical storms.
Heat caused extensive coral bleaching, rapid kelp loss, and lower fish catches as heat-sensitive species moved or died.

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Europe Sizzles

Western Europe recorded its hottest June-July, averaging 21.62 °C—2.79 °C above the 1991-2020 norm.
A third and fourth heatwave hit since May, while a fifth is forecast for August.
Low flows in the Seine, Rhine and Danube forced shutdowns of coal plants and Hungary’s nuclear reactor.
Heat-related deaths topped 25,000 in Europe, which ECMWF climate lead Samantha Burgess linked to a high-pressure ridge and a “Super” El Niño amplifying the heat.

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