Thunderstorms and high winds struck Paris, with dramatic footage capturing lightning illuminating the Eiffel Tower. The storms followed a prolonged heatwave across France and other parts of Europe, which officials said contributed to approximately 1,000 excess deaths in France.
Photographer Bertrand Kulik captured images of repeated lightning strikes hitting the iconic landmark as winds reached up to 93 mph in the French capital. The storms moved across the region after days of extreme temperatures. In the UK, a heatwave had seen records broken for three consecutive days, with temperatures reaching a provisional peak of 37.3C (99.1F) on Friday.
The extreme heat led to disruptions and casualties across Europe. In the UK, thunderstorms caused significant flight delays at Gatwick and Heathrow airports, with 42% and 50% of flights delayed respectively by Saturday evening. Fire services in Kent responded to three house fires attributed to lightning strikes. Meanwhile, people sought ways to cool down, with some seen swimming in public spaces like Hampstead Heath and the River Wey, despite potential restrictions.
Scientists have warned that such intense heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe due to human-driven climate change. The recent heatwave was attributed to a "heat-dome," an area of high pressure that trapped heat over western Europe, exacerbated by the burning of fossil fuels. The Met Office in the UK issued an amber warning for extreme heat, which was extended until Sunday morning, though temperatures were forecast to drop significantly afterward, offering a "much fresher feel."
Beyond the immediate impact of storms and heat, the extended period of high temperatures has had wider consequences. Public Health France reported a 40% rise in deaths at home during the heatwave, with a significant portion among individuals aged 65 and older. In the UK, six people drowned during the hot weather, adding to 15 water-related fatalities in May. Hospitals declared critical incidents, with some forced to cancel planned operations and appointments due to the strain on services. Hundreds of schools and nurseries closed, and a hosepipe ban was implemented in Kent.