A powerful and prolonged heat wave is preparing to engulf much of Europe, as meteorologists warn that a strong blocking anticyclone will dominate atmospheric conditions until at least the end of June, likely continuing into the first days of July.
According to meteorological models, a phenomenon known as a "heat dome" is forming over the continent, which will bring extremely high temperatures and stable atmospheric pressure.
At the 500 mbar level, geopotential heights are predicted to reach record values, signaling an unusual heat episode for this time of year.
This blocking system acts like a giant lid on the atmosphere, preventing the penetration of cool fronts and precipitation.
As a result, hot air accumulates and condenses near the earth's surface, increasing temperatures day after day.
Meteorologists emphasize that thermal anomalies are already extreme, with temperatures in some regions being 15 to 20 degrees Celsius above the late June climate average.
After hitting France, Spain and Portugal, the heat wave will extend this week to Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom.
At the weekend, scorching temperatures are expected to include Germany, Poland, Scandinavian countries, the Alpine region and then the Balkans.
Due to the lack of weather systems that can bring cooling, experts warn that this heat wave could last beyond the end of June, making the beginning of July one of the hottest periods of the summer so far.