BETA
Chapter 1
The atmospheric recipe for extreme heat
Chapter 2
The Sahara connection and local factors
Chapter 3
Why Europe is warming faster than other places
Chapter 4
Surviving and adapting to the new normal
YOUR GOAL
Master of The science of European heatwaves
Ch 1 · The atmospheric recipe for extreme heat
sebas11th Heat Domes
A high-pressure dome, over Europe, it settles, traps all the hot air, lets the sun beat down, making the heat build.
sebas11th Atmospheric blocks act like massive boulders in a stream, forcing weather systems to stall or divert.
sebas11th A weak or wavy jet stream can stall weather patterns, keeping hot weather locked over Europe for weeks.
Fun Fact
Jet stream speed: The jet stream can reach speeds of over 400 kilometers per hour, but when it slows down and wobbles, it can trap weather in place for weeks.
Glossary
heat dome (noun)
A persistent region of high atmospheric pressure that traps hot air beneath it, causing extreme temperatures. In June 2026, this atmospheric phenomenon trapped scorching air over Europe, driving temperatures in France past 44°C.
A persistent region of high atmospheric pressure that traps hot air beneath it, causing extreme temperatures. In June 2026, this atmospheric phenomenon trapped scorching air over Europe, driving temperatures in France past 44°C.
Quiz
What atmospheric phenomenon acts like a lid, trapping hot air over a region during a heatwave?
Quiz
Which European country experienced record-breaking seasonal low soil moisture by June 2026?
Quiz
How high did temperatures soar in parts of France during the extreme June 2026 heatwave?
Quiz
What happens to solar energy when European soil moisture reaches record seasonal lows?
Quiz
What is the meteorological term for a stationary high-pressure system that stops other weather systems from moving?