European summers are getting brutally hot. So why is air conditioning so rare?

Increasingly frequent and intense heat waves are posing a significant challenge across Europe, with many residents enduring record-breaking temperatures without the common relief of air conditioning. The rarity of this cooling technology in European homes forces many to cope with the heat using less effective measures like electric fans and ice packs. This situation highlights broader issues regarding energy consumption, infrastructure, and adaptation strategies, raising questions about the continent's preparedness for future climate shifts.