Heatwave and drought threaten Europe’s potato crop

An intense heatwave that swept across Southern, Western, and Central Europe in late June is increasing risks for the region’s potato crop. Temperatures have exceeded 40°C in many areas just as potatoes enter the critical tuber initiation and bulking stages. Experts warn that prolonged heat, limited rainfall, and declining soil moisture could reduce yields, lower crop quality, and increase production costs.

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the Copernicus Climate Change Service, the extreme weather is being driven by a persistent high-pressure system known as an Omega Block, which is trapping hot air over much of Europe while suppressing rainfall. Scientists note that Europe is warming faster than any other continent, making heatwaves more frequent, more intense, and longer-lasting.

The greatest risks are currently facing potato-growing regions in Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, and Central Europe. Potatoes develop best at temperatures between 18°C and 22°C, while temperatures above 30°C cause severe physiological stress, slowing photosynthesis, increasing water demand, and reducing tuber development.

The first signs of crop losses have already been reported in Spain. In Castile and León, the country’s largest potato-producing region, persistent heat has slowed crop development and sharply increased irrigation demand. Growers estimate that yields could decline by 10–15% if hot and dry conditions continue throughout the remainder of the growing season.

Water shortages are adding further pressure on producers. The European Commission has identified expanding areas of agricultural water stress across France, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and other parts of Europe. In Italy, exceptionally low water levels in the Po River have allowed seawater to move inland, threatening freshwater supplies for irrigation.

Analysts say it is still too early to determine the full impact on Europe’s potato market, as much will depend on weather conditions during July. Timely rainfall and cooler temperatures could help stabilize crop development. However, if extreme heat and drought persist, Europe could face lower potato yields, reduced processing quality, and tighter supplies for French fries, potato chips, starch, and other potato products later in the season.