Charon heatwave: Why is it so hot in Europe and how long will it last?
As Europe battles with extreme weather conditions, a deadly heatwave is sweeping across the continent, posing a significant threat. While the United Kingdom finds itself soaked in continuous rain and battered by strong winds, a striking contrast emerges in the Mediterranean region, where scorching heat is causing record-breaking temperatures.
Italy, Spain and Greece could see temperatures close to 45C as a new anticyclone dubbed ‘Charon’ has advanced into the Mediterranean
In the UK, the Met Office warns of persistent showers and unsettled conditions in the coming days. Meanwhile, Spain, Italy, and Greece have already been enduring sweltering temperatures for an extended period, leading to severe consequences for agriculture and prompting tourists to seek refuge in the shade.
The Mediterranean region faces the ominous prospect of a new European heat record as temperatures are projected to soar beyond 40°C. An anticyclone named Charon, reminiscent of the mythical ferryman of the dead in Greek mythology, has made its way into the area from North Africa. Experts fear that this weather system could push temperatures even higher, potentially reaching 45°C (113°F) in parts of Italy early this week.
The phenomenon of the European heatwave has been attributed to a high-pressure area named Cerberus, after the fearsome underworld monster in Dante's Inferno. This atmospheric condition is responsible for the extreme heat and unforgiving weather experienced in the region, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the affected countries.
