Heatwave and flooding in Europe by Nina Ridge
A heatwave sweeping across southeastern Europe has reportedly claimed at least 40 lives, while persistent torrential rain has killed three and forced hundreds to evacuate their homes in Britain.
Many countries have seen record temperatures as the heatwave has intensified over the past few days. In Greece, authorities have put emergency services on full alert and were bracing for power shortages as Athens and other parts of the country baked in temperatures of 46 Celsius (115F).
The heatwave has affected many other countries including Sicily, Romania, Serbia, Croatia and Cyprus with temperatures soaring into the mid 40’s Celsius. Wildfires have been sparked off in some countries. In Sicily, firefighters are battling to extinguish extensive blazes north of Palermo.
Forecasters expect the heatwave to continue with other countries experiencing further record temperatures over the next few days.
Meanwhile, torrential rains lashed many parts of England and Wales at the start of the week. The worst affected area was parts of south Yorkshire where it is feared that the Ulley Dam near Rotherham could give way. Structural engineers have been assessing the site. Flooding around the rest of the county and the surrounding saw the closure of the M1 Motorway.
With more heavy rain expected this coming weekend, the Met Office is concerned about further flooding.
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