Europe has faced an unprecedented weather anomaly: May 2026 has gone down in history as the second warmest on record. Western European countries, including the UK, France, Ireland, and Portugal, recorded record-breaking temperatures that shocked both local residents and climatologists.
A 'Heat Dome' over the Continent
The cause of such a sharp temperature spike was a powerful atmospheric phenomenon known as a 'heat dome'. This is a massive mass of hot air that formed over North Africa and moved into Western European territories. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, this month was marked by a rapid transition from cool conditions to one of the most intense heatwaves ever observed at the beginning of the year.
In several regions, the heat index reached critical levels of 35–40 degrees Celsius. Local authorities were forced to issue warnings, fearing for the health of the population, particularly vulnerable groups.
A New Climate Reality
Experts emphasize that such phenomena are ceasing to be rare exceptions. Samantha Burgess, Climate Strategy Director at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, noted that such anomalous heat arriving so early is becoming the new normal. Sharp temperature fluctuations create serious risks not only for human health but also for agriculture and natural ecosystems.
Global statistics confirm a worrying trend: the average air temperature on the planet in May reached 15.81°C, which is the second-highest figure in history. A similar situation is observed with sea surface temperatures.
The Influence of El Niño
Scientists link the current anomaly to the development of the El Niño phenomenon. The World Meteorological Organization estimates the probability of its formation in the coming months at 80%. Climate models predict that the new cycle could become one of the most powerful in recorded history.
History shows a direct link: the previous El Niño contributed to 2023 becoming the second hottest year, and 2024 the record-breaking one. Now, meteorologists warn that in the coming years, the world may face the establishment of new temperature records, as well as an increase in the risks of droughts, heatwaves, and extreme precipitation in various corners of the globe.