What caused the European heatwave of 2003?
In the summer of 2003 an anticyclone stationed above western Europe prevented precipitation and led to record high temperatures over sustained periods. Forest fires raged across western Europe as weakened trees and dry underbrush fed the flames.
How long did the 2003 European heat wave last?
The severe heat wave began in Europe in June 2003 and continued through July until mid-August, raising summer temperatures 20 to 30% higher than the seasonal average in Celsius degrees over a large portion of the continent, extend- ing from northern Spain to the Czech Republic and from Germany to Italy (see map below).
Was there a heatwave in 2003?
Maximum temperatures Many parts of Europe saw their temperature records broken during this summer, including the UK. A sweltering 38.5°C was recorded in Brogdale in Kent on 10 August 2003, a record high which still stands today.
Where was the 2003 European heat wave?
The 2003 European heat wave led to what was, at the time, the hottest summer on record in Europe since at least 1540. France was hit especially hard. The heat wave led to health crises in several countries and combined with drought to create a crop shortfall in parts of Southern Europe….2003 European heat wave.
| Losses | |
|---|---|
| Deaths | 70,000 |
How long did the summer of 76 last?
The summer of 1976 heatwave lasted for for 15 consecutive days, from 23 June to 7 July in 1976 – with some areas having no rain for months.
When was the worst heat wave?
The 1936 North American heat wave was one of the most severe heat waves in the modern history of North America. It took place in the middle of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl of the 1930s and caused catastrophic human suffering and an enormous economic toll.
What caused many deaths in 2003?
Trends. The top five causes, heart disease, cancer, stroke, CLRD, and unintentional injuries, accounted for about 67 percent of all deaths in 2003, down from 76 percent in 1980 (Figure 1 ).
How did the 2003 heat wave in France affect crops?
The 2003 heat wave and drought was exceptional, generating an overall loss of € 4 billion to the agricultural sector in France (Copa-Cogeca 2003). France produced 29 MT of wheat in 2003, 21.5% down compared to 2002 and France’s maize output equalled 11.5 MT, 30% down compared to 2002 (Agra Europe 2003).
How much was a pint of beer in 1976?
A pint of beer cost 32p. A loaf of bread was 19p.”
How hot was the summer of 1976?
96.6 °F
1976 British Isles heat wave
| Lyme Regis Beach, Dorset, August 1976 | |
|---|---|
| Areas | British Isles |
| Start date | 23 June 1976 |
| End date | 27 August 1976 |
| Peak temperature | 35.9 °C (96.6 °F), recorded at Cheltenham, Gloucestershire on 3 July 1976 |
Why was 2012 so warm?
The heat wave formed when high pressure aloft over the Baja California, Mexico, strengthened and moved over the southern plains around June 20–23 and then spread east and northward, remaining fixed over the center of North America through July 2012.