June and July in Western Europe Hottest on Record

In June and July 2023, Western Europe experienced record temperatures, according to the Climate Change Service of the EU's Copernicus program. The average temperature in the region during this period was 21.62 degrees Celsius, which is 2.79 degrees above the long-term average for June, calculated from 1991 to 2020.

Copernicus data indicate that the high temperatures were triggered by multiple heatwaves. These heatwaves resulted not only in high temperatures on land but also caused sea surface temperatures to reach global highs.

The average sea surface temperature was recorded at 20.96 degrees Celsius, setting a new record. This has contributed to a significant temperature gradient from Western to Eastern Europe, with the highest values registered in the southwestern parts of Western Europe.

According to reports, many parts of Europe suffered not only from high temperatures but also from drought and wildfires. Such climatic conditions present additional challenges for the affected regions.

The data from Copernicus also highlight that the extreme weather conditions cannot be viewed in isolation. They are part of a changing climate that has increasingly exhibited noticeable patterns over the years.

In the coming months, it is expected that these weather conditions may influence both the environment and society. Official bodies are advising caution and recommending adaptation strategies.

The measurement data and the resultant insights are being closely monitored and analyzed in both scientific and political circles to better understand the impacts of climate change.