Barcelona broke its record temperature in 112 years with mercury rising up to 40.7°C (105.3°F), amid a heatwave that has hit both Spain and Western Europe.

This temperature, which was recorded on Wednesday, surpasses all other records since measurements have been made in Barcelona since 1914. Spanish Weather Service announced that a mass of dry and hot air above the Iberian Peninsula led to extremely high temperatures. Some places in southern Spain reached temperatures of almost or more than 44°C.

Spanish officials warned residents about heat in several parts of the country and asked them to drink enough water, avoid physical activity during peak hours, and pay special attention to the elderly and people with chronic diseases. Emergency services were placed on high alert amid the rise in heat-related illnesses and forest fires.

Moreover, this heat wave has affected other European countries, including France. One reactor at the nuclear power station Golfech had to be shut down due to excessive water warming in a river. French firefighters had to extinguish hundreds of wildfires caused by dry weather and heat.

This heatwave comes after a period of exceptionally hot weather at the beginning of summer in Europe. Scientists have concluded that global warming has increased the occurrence and severity of heatwaves, but every heat wave depends on climatic changes and weather.

Health organizations in Europe have warned people to limit outdoor activities during the day when it is at its hottest. They should also consume sufficient water and be in cool rooms when possible. The effect of the heatwaves on transportation, electricity needs, and healthcare facilities is being monitored by officials.

According to weather forecasts, there will be temperatures higher than usual in some parts of Spain and western Europe for the next couple of days, but the conditions might improve gradually later in the week. Heat warnings will continue wherever the heat threatens the health of the people.