Global climate enters a new normal as heatwaves become more frequent and intense
via Business News2 min read
Europe is experiencing one of its most intense heatwaves in recent years, with nearly three billion people worldwide exposed to temperatures 9 to 13°C above seasonal norms. Major European cities like London, Paris, and Berlin are forecast to reach 39°C, 41°C, and 38°C respectively, significantly exceeding usual averages. Environmental engineer and climate expert Hamdi Hached stated on June 22, 2026, that these events are no longer exceptional, introducing the "FLIP" phenomenon, which describes heatwaves that are more frequent, longer, and earlier. This trend is linked to global warming, with an increase in days exceeding 35°C, a critical threshold for human health, raising risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and cardiovascular complications, especially for the elderly and vulnerable. Several countries have activated emergency measures; France has placed over 60 departments on heightened alert, while parts of Germany and the Netherlands have restricted movement for vulnerable individuals. Spain has seen temperatures near 40°C for over a week. Scientists are also concerned about "tropical nights," where temperatures remain high, preventing the human body from recovering. Hached cited Mumbai, India, which recently recorded nighttime temperatures of 30.6°C, leading to increased air conditioning demand and power outages, highlighting "cooling precarity." Experts advocate for rapid urban adaptation, including increased urban greening, which Hached estimates can reduce local temp
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Must ReadThe General Federation of Banks, Financial Institutions, and Insurance Companies, affiliated with the UGTT, issued a call for mobilization on Monday, June 22, 2026, ahead of a three-day general strike in the banking sector. The strike is scheduled for June 23, 24, and 25. The federation urged all employees to adhere to union directives and participate massively. The strike will involve a complete absence of employees from their workplaces across all banks, financial institutions, and insurance companies in the country, including head offices, central directorates, agencies, branches, and other sector-related workplaces. The federation called on employees and executives to actively contribute to the success of this mobilization, which it presents as a defense of union rights and employees' professional and social demands. Employees in Greater Tunis are invited to gather on Tuesday, June 23, at 9 AM in front of the UGTT headquarters, while employees in other regions are asked to join regional unions. The federation emphasized the need for responsibility, union discipline, and solidarity to ensure the movement's success. This call follows the confirmation on Friday, June 19, that the general strike would proceed. The federation had denounced the continued blockage of social dialogue and alleged pressures exerted on some employees as the movement approached. According to the federation, employers continue to refuse any salary increase for 2025 and the application of certain provi