Good morning from Brussels. As Europe wakes up to the first Sunday of September, several stories are shaping the continent's agenda. From the Mediterranean to the Channel, here are the key developments you need to know.
Border checks and travel changes
Spain has extended its temporary border checks on arrivals from Italy until 22 September, a move that reflects ongoing concerns over security and migration. The checks, which were due to expire this weekend, will now remain in place for another two weeks. Travellers between the two countries should expect delays at land and sea crossings.
Meanwhile, the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) flexibility period ends today, 6 September. From now on, border authorities across the Schengen area will apply the system's rules more strictly, requiring biometric data from non-EU travellers. The change is part of the bloc's broader effort to modernise border management, but it has raised concerns about longer queues at popular entry points, particularly in southern Europe.
For those planning trips further afield, Thailand has halved visa-free stays for EU travellers from September, a decision that will affect holidaymakers and business visitors alike. The move is a reminder that travel rules can shift quickly, so it's wise to check the latest requirements before booking.
Heat and extreme weather
Spain is also in the spotlight for its weather. On Friday, the country tied its September heat record at 45.7°C, as an intense heatwave continues to grip the Iberian Peninsula. The extreme temperatures are not just uncomfortable—they're dangerous. Health authorities have issued warnings about heat-related illnesses, and the risk of wildfires remains high.
The heat is also fuelling a different threat: flash floods. Meteorologists warn that the warm Mediterranean waters and unstable air masses could trigger sudden, violent storms across southern Europe in the coming days. Communities in coastal areas, from Valencia to Sicily, are on alert for rapid flooding, a phenomenon that has become more frequent in recent years.
Looking ahead
As the day unfolds, keep an eye on these stories and more. For a deeper dive into yesterday's events, you can read our evening update from September 5. And for a broader view of the week's developments, our morning briefing from yesterday offers context on the trends shaping the continent.
Stay tuned throughout the day for updates on these and other stories. We'll be watching how the border checks affect travellers, whether the heatwave breaks, and what else emerges from Europe's capitals.
