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 2 · The Sahara connection and local factors
sebas11th Saharan Heat in Europe
Sahara's hot breath, a high-pressure dome, trapping Europe's summer, warming oceans, dry land, feeling it now.
sebas11th Unusually warm waters in the Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean prevent coastal areas from cooling down.
sebas11th Urban areas trap and retain heat far more than surrounding rural landscapes, creating urban heat islands.
BETA
sebas11th Match Saharan heat patterns to learn why Europe experiences summer sizzle.
Fun Fact
Saharan dust: Saharan dust plumes blowing into Europe can turn skies a dramatic orange and even leave a layer of orange dust on cars.
Glossary
omega block (noun)
A large-scale atmospheric pattern shaped like the Greek letter Omega that stalls normal weather systems. In June 2026, this meteorological phenomenon trapped hot Saharan air over Europe, shattering historical temperature records.
A large-scale atmospheric pattern shaped like the Greek letter Omega that stalls normal weather systems. In June 2026, this meteorological phenomenon trapped hot Saharan air over Europe, shattering historical temperature records.
Quiz
What percentage of incoming sunlight is typically reflected back into space by cloud cover?
Quiz
What record temperature was reached in the Mediterranean Sea during the recent European heatwaves?
Quiz
By how much can city centers be warmer than surrounding rural areas due to the heat island effect?
Quiz
Which Spanish city experienced nighttime temperatures remaining above 25 degrees Celsius during the 2026 heatwave?