Heatwave in Europe in late July 2026: In which countries could temperatures approach 50 degrees?

The European continent is bracing for yet another heat challenge—meteorologists are forecasting a severe heat wave at the end of July and beginning of August 2026. The highest temperatures are expected in southern countries, where thermometers could approach critical levels. Learn more about where in Europe temperatures could reach 50 degrees at the end of July and what the weather conditions will be like in the coming days

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Europe is bracing for another intense heat wave, which is set to sweep across the continent in late July and early August. According to weather forecasters, the highest temperatures this summer are expected in southern Spain and Italy, where thermometers could reach 50 degrees. This is reported by the Polish website TwojaPogoda.pl.

In this article, we explain when the peak of the summer heatwave in Europe will occur, which regions have already recorded abnormal temperatures, and what residents and tourists in southern countries can expect in the coming days.

Are you planning a summer vacation in Europe and worried about how the heat might affect your well-being while abroad?

The Visit World portal offers health insurance policies that cover risks associated with high temperatures, heatstroke, and flare-ups of chronic conditions.

When will the peak of the heatwave in Europe occur in the summer of 2026?

The hottest period of the European summer traditionally falls during the last ten days of July and the first ten days of August. It is during this time that conditions for the longest and most intense heatwaves form over the continent.

Forecasters are already observing the first signs of a significant rise in temperatures in southern Europe. In recent days, the epicenter of the most intense heat has shifted from Spain to the southern regions of Italy, indicating a gradual increase in abnormal temperatures.

Where is the cheapest place to vacation in Europe in the summer of 2026 — find out by following the link.

Record-breaking temperatures in southern Europe: where has it gotten the hottest?

The highest temperature was recorded on the Italian island of Sardinia. The air temperature in the shade reached 47 degrees here, just one degree below the island’s all-time record of 48.2 degrees, set in July 2023.

The current reading also came close to the European high for the summer of 2021. At that time, on the Italian island of Sicily, the thermometer in the shade rose to 48.8 degrees, which was one of the highest recorded values for the continent.

Unusual beach rules in Europe — compiled here.

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Weather forecast for Southern European countries for the coming days

In the coming days, a slight easing of the heat is expected across Italy, Greece, and the Balkan region. However, temperatures will remain high and comfortable only for those who tolerate summer heat well.

Key forecast characteristics for southern Europe:

• daytime temperatures will range from 30 to 35 degrees;
• nighttime and morning temperatures will remain abnormally high—in some places no lower than 25 degrees;
• across these regions, it will generally be about ten degrees cooler compared to the previous heatwave peak;

• in southern Spain and Italy, temperatures may approach 50 degrees by the end of July.

Cooler nights will not provide significant relief, as the body will not have enough time to fully recover between daytime heat peaks. This increases health risks for travelers, especially for the elderly and people with chronic conditions.

Where to find free cooling centers during heat waves in Europe — we explain in this article.

Health Risks When Traveling in Europe

Abnormal heat places additional strain on the cardiovascular system, increases the likelihood of dehydration, heatstroke, and exacerbation of chronic conditions. Tourists planning trips to the southern part of the continent should take these risks into account when planning their itinerary.

Seeing a doctor abroad without insurance coverage can be very expensive, and the basic policy included with a Schengen visa does not cover all medical expenses. With this in mind, reliable medical insurance is an essential part of preparing for a trip to European countries during the summer heat.

To ensure a safe trip through European countries during periods of extreme heat, use the services of the Visit World portal. The platform offers medical insurance policies with comprehensive coverage that account for risks associated with heatstroke, dehydration, and the exacerbation of chronic conditions while abroad.

Get medical insurance from Visit World in advance to protect yourself and your loved ones from unexpected medical expenses during your summer vacation in Europe!

Reminder! In our previous article, we talked about European lakes where you can swim safely.

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