From intense rainfall causing floods in Norway and Croatia, to blazing hot temperatures in Spain and Portugal, let's examine the weather situations across Europe for this week.
Throughout this week, Europe has been subjected to a range of extreme weather occurrences. In Norway, approximately 4,000 individuals were forced to evacuate regions impacted by the "Hans" storm, which led to substantial flooding and extensive destruction.
"I've just received a notification that we're undergoing an immediate evacuation, and it seems like this pertains to all residences and structures, I believe, situated closest to the river," described Marte Jørsted, a resident. "We're situated on a small hill, so there's concern about the potential for landslides."
Helicopters were deployed to rescue residents from isolated regions, and a "red flood warning" was announced in the southern part of the nation.
Consecutive days of intense rainfall led to the overflowing of rivers and a partial breach of a dam. This resulted in landslides and widespread flooding in the mountainous area, compelling communities downstream to carry out evacuation procedures.
Croatia: Historic Rise in Drava River Levels
In Croatia, the Drava River surged to an unprecedented height of 704 centimeters. Roughly 50 vacation homes on the opposite side of the embankment were inundated by the river's waters.
The recent heavy rainfall led authorities to declare a 'state of emergency' in certain areas of the country.
Local officials have reported that the situation is now manageable, and efforts are underway to install sandbags to prevent any seepage.
"I believe flood defenses have been put in place at all crucial points. The situation will require close monitoring over the next two or three days, but we are optimistic that significant issues will be avoided," stated Tomislav Novosel from the Croatian Waters Flood Defense Centre.
Spain: Experiencing its Third Summer Heatwave
In the meantime, Spain is grappling with its third significant heatwave of the summer, with temperatures soaring to a scorching 46º Celsius in the eastern city of Valencia.
To help those without homes cope with the heat, the local government established a dedicated shelter offering access to nourishment, clean water, and showers.
The city center appeared less populated than usual, as numerous individuals sought refuge on Valencian beaches or in the countryside.
"We rely on air conditioning and a fan during the night," shares Roberto Gimenez, a local resident. "During the daytime, if we don't have work, we aim to leave the house as late as possible and head to the beach," he adds.
Spain's national meteorological agency issued a warning this week, indicating that the average temperature across the nation could reach a record not seen in seven decades.
AEMET, the state meteorological agency, declared, "These upcoming five days in August are likely to be the hottest in 73 years," as nearly the entire country is placed under red weather alerts.
Portugal: Mass Exodus to Evade Forest Fires
Massive forest fires persistently swept through southern Portugal, fueled by strong winds and intense heat, resulting in the destruction of 15,000 hectares of wooded areas.
The most extensive fires were observed in the southern region of Odemira, prompting the evacuation of thousands of individuals. The fires even extended to the Algarve, an immensely popular tourist spot.
Experts emphasize that the recurring, increasingly prolonged, and more intense heatwaves are direct outcomes of climate change.
%20(1)-Photoroom.png)