Europe's scorched landscapes seen from space after summer heatwaves

Satellite imagery documented reduced water levels in major European rivers and dried vegetation across fields and mountainous terrain following summer heatwaves in 2025 and 2026. BBC Verify analyzed photographs taken from space showing changes in the Rhine, Danube, and other waterways, as well as agricultural areas affected by drought conditions. The visual record included observations of mountain snow cover and water reserves across western Europe.

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