Southern Europe has been suffering from abnormal weather reaching 42 degrees Celsius early this year. Governments in various countries, particularly Spain and Italy, have begun emergency responses.

According to Reuters on the 28th (local time), Sicily, Italy, prohibited outdoor work during the hottest hours as daytime temperatures reached 39 degrees. Northwestern Liguria also implemented the same measures, and labor unions are demanding a nationwide expansion.

In Marseille, France, as June temperatures approached 40 degrees, public swimming pools were opened to citizens free of charge. Near Athens, Greece, where temperatures soared to 40 degrees, a large wildfire broke out. Authorities issued evacuation orders and controlled some coastal roads leading to the famous tourist site of the Temple of Poseidon.

Seville, Spain records a temperature of 42 degrees on the 28th. /Courtesy of Yonhap News Agency

The Spain Meteorological Administration also issued a heatwave warning, forecasting a maximum temperature of 42 degrees for the weekend. The weather agency noted that "the heat may not even dissipate at night" and urged particular caution for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly.

Lisbon, Portugal, is also expected to reach a high of 42 degrees on the 29th. The heatwave and wildfire danger warnings have already been issued for two-thirds of the country.

Experts warned that this heatwave is just the beginning.

According to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), last March was recorded as the hottest March in European history.

Analysis indicates that global warming is causing extreme weather phenomena such as heatwaves and floods to occur more frequently.

Last year was the hottest year on record. The total damage incurred worldwide reached $300 billion (approximately 409 trillion won).

The international journal "The Lancet Public Health" predicted that by the end of the 21st century, heat-related deaths in Europe will exceed three times the current numbers.