The summer of 2025 in Europe, and especially in the Baltic region, could be one of the hottest in decades, warns prominent Latvian meteorologist Romanas Vilfandas, who has published a long-term seasonal forecast that not only predicts record-breaking heat, but also a growing threat of tornadoes and wildfires.
According to Vilfand, the winter of 2025 was historically warm - January became the warmest in 250 years of observations. The average temperature in many regions was as much as 4 degrees above normal. As a result, very little snow fell and the ground remained dry, which already in the spring caused signs of drought in some areas.
"These winter weather fluctuations are not an isolated phenomenon, but a sign of broader climate change," the meteorologist comments. This situation means that the soil will not receive enough moisture, which can exacerbate the effects of heat and drought in the summer.
Record-breaking heatwaves have been in place since May
Vilfand says that heat waves will start earlier than usual - as early as May, days with temperatures above +30°C may be recorded. This trend, he says, will continue throughout the summer, with temperatures reaching +35–37°C in some regions.
Prolonged heat waves lasting more than five consecutive days will be particularly dangerous. During this time, increased humidity will make the heat even more intense, posing a serious health risk to people, especially the elderly and children.
Fire threat and air pollution
The greatest risk of heat is expected in eastern European regions, especially Siberia and the Urals, where temperatures are forecast to reach 45°C. Such conditions increase the likelihood of taiga fires. Up to 2025 million hectares of forest could be burned in 5, with smoke reaching as far as Alaska and Canada.
Vilfand warns that fires of this scale pose a threat not only to local ecosystems but also to global air quality. Air pollution can reach dangerous levels even in regions thousands of kilometers away.
Hurricanes and tornadoes are not just a reality in the US
Although tornadoes are usually associated with North America, they are increasingly being recorded in Europe. Vilfand says that such storms could also occur in Eastern Europe in the summer of 2025, especially at the end of heat waves, when atmospheric instability is at its peak.
"These are dangerous, difficult-to-predict phenomena that can cause enormous damage in a matter of minutes," warns the forecaster.
Recommendations for residents
Given the predicted summer scenario, Vilfandas recommends taking precautions now:
- Avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 16 p.m.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and use body cooling products.
- Wear light, loose clothing and head coverings.
- Monitor weather forecasts and follow extreme weather advisories.
- Farmers are advised to grow drought-resistant crops and take care of irrigation systems.
The summer of 2025 could be a real test for both people and the environment. Meteorologists urge not only to plan your vacation responsibly, but also to take the risks posed by climate change seriously. It is necessary to prepare not only for the heat, but also for its consequences - from health problems to damage to infrastructure.
