Poland braces for record-breaking heatwave with temperatures up to 42 °C

Polish authorities have issued red‑level heat alerts for much of the country as a severe heatwave peaks this weekend. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) forecasts maximum temperatures of 40‑42 °C in western and central regions, with night‑time readings staying above 20 °C – a phenomenon described as “tropical nights.” Alerts of the third degree cover provinces such as Lubusz, West Pomerania, Greater Poland, Lower Silesia and Mazovia, while second‑degree warnings apply to thirteen other voivodeships.

Health officials and local governments urge residents to avoid sun exposure between 10:00‑17:00, stay hydrated, wear light clothing and seek shade or air‑conditioned spaces. Special care is advised for seniors, children, people with chronic illnesses and pets.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk, after a 10‑km run in the heat, posted a video urging people not to venture outdoors during peak hours and to protect the most vulnerable.

The heatwave forms part of a broader European warming trend: the ESOTC climate report shows Europe warming roughly twice as fast as the global average, with record‑high sea‑surface temperatures, widespread drought and over one million hectares burned in 2025.

Misinformation about the heatwave is also spreading online, including false claims that the temperatures are being artificially engineered. Experts warn that such narratives may undermine public‑health measures and climate‑policy responses.