Good morning from Brussels. As the sun rises over the continent, Europe is bracing for another day of extreme heat, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C in parts of Spain, Italy, and Greece. The European Commission has activated its emergency coordination centre to help member states manage the strain on health services and energy grids.
Heatwave prompts EU action
The prolonged heatwave, now in its third week, has prompted EU environment ministers to hold an emergency video conference later today. They will discuss a coordinated response, including sharing cooling centres and electricity interconnections. In Madrid, the city has opened 24-hour shelters, while Athens has restricted outdoor work during peak hours. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has issued guidance on heat-related illnesses, urging vulnerable populations to stay indoors.
This comes as scientists warn that such heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that July 2026 was the hottest on record for the continent. The situation has also sparked debates about long-term adaptation, with some calling for a European heat resilience fund.
Germany's industrial strategy
In Berlin, Chancellor Friedrich Merz is set to unveil a new industrial strategy aimed at boosting competitiveness in green technologies. The plan includes tax incentives for electric vehicle battery production and a €10 billion fund for hydrogen infrastructure. Economy Minister Robert Habeck emphasized the need to reduce dependence on Chinese imports, saying, "We must secure our supply chains and invest in our own capabilities." The strategy has drawn mixed reactions, with business groups welcoming the support but environmentalists criticizing the lack of concrete emissions targets.
This development follows earlier discussions on EU industrial policy that highlighted the need for a unified approach. The German plan could influence similar initiatives in France and Italy, as the bloc seeks to strengthen its economic sovereignty.
France's consumer crackdown
Across the Rhine, France is preparing to implement a ban on unsolicited cold calls starting August 11. The measure, part of a broader consumer protection law, will prohibit companies from making unsolicited phone calls to individuals unless they have given prior consent. Violators could face fines of up to €75,000. The ban is expected to affect telemarketing firms and has been praised by consumer groups. "This is a victory for privacy and peace of mind," said a spokesperson for UFC-Que Choisir. The French government hopes the move will reduce nuisance calls and restore trust in telephone commerce.
This initiative is part of a wider European trend, with several member states considering similar measures. The European Parliament has also called for an EU-wide opt-in system for marketing calls.
Security concerns at Ceuta
In southern Spain, the Civil Guard has warned of a possible mass crossing attempt at the Ceuta border on August 15. Intelligence suggests that migrant smugglers are organizing a large group to storm the border fence, similar to the 2021 incident when thousands entered the enclave. Spanish authorities have increased patrols and are coordinating with Moroccan counterparts. The interior ministry in Madrid has activated a contingency plan, and the EU's border agency Frontex is on standby. This comes amid rising migration pressures across the Mediterranean, with arrivals up 20% this year compared to 2025.
The situation has reignited debates on EU migration policy, with some member states calling for stronger external borders and others advocating for more legal pathways. The European Commission is expected to propose a new migration pact later this year.
Cultural highlights
On a lighter note, Madrid's Prado Museum has unveiled an innovative AI project that reimagines its masterpieces under the light of a solar eclipse. The installation, which runs until the end of August, uses machine learning to simulate how paintings like Velázquez's "Las Meninas" would appear during totality. It's a fascinating blend of art and technology, drawing large crowds. For those interested in the Prado's AI video, it's a must-see.
As the day progresses, we'll bring you updates on the heatwave, the German strategy, and other key stories. For a deeper dive into the latest developments, check our midday update and evening briefing. Stay cool and informed.
