HOLIDAYMAKERS in the Mediterranean were last week sweltering in the hottest weather for more than 200 years, with bathers enjoying sea temperatures similar to those in the Caribbean.

Records that have stood for centuries have been falling across southern Europe as temperatures have risen to above 40C (104F).

The extreme heat has, however, caused havoc in some areas and prompted warnings of potentially dire consequences.

“These are unprecedented conditions that could cause tropical storms that have the potential to destroy everything that gets in their way,” said Francesco Meneguzzo, a weather researcher for the Italian government.

The heatwave has not been confined to southern Europe. Last week temperatures in southern England were higher than those in Bali.

Forecasters warn temperatures will rise even further in the next few days and may exceed 30C (86F).

Already experts say the temperatures are effectively turning the Mediterranean into a tropical aquarium with sea temperatures up to 27C (80F).

Native species of fish are under threat from intruders usually found in more southern waters, such as barracudas.

While those people on Europe’s beaches last week celebrated the hot weather, many city dwellers and tourists found it intolerable; in Rome, tourists were reported to be fainting in St Peter’s Square.

The Italian capital has already had the hottest June since records began in 1782. Both in Rome and Paris last week, tourists were jumping into fountains to keep cool.

There have been similar scenes in Switzerland, not usually renowned for its blistering temperatures. It also recorded its hottest June in 250 years.

The heatwave has triggered an exodus from many cities. Vast numbers of Romans have fled the capital to seek respite in the surrounding hills and beach resorts.

Parisians, too, are deserting their city well ahead of their summer holidays. Some government officials have been so concerned by the heatwave that they have issued instructions to residents to stay indoors. In southwest France, the elderly and young have been warned against strenuous exercise.

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