Europe faces fourth summer heatwave as temperature records fall

Extreme weather continues to grip Europe as the continent faces its fourth major heatwave of the summer, triggering health warnings and breaking temperature records.

In Italy, health authorities extended red weather alerts to all 27 major cities, adding Messina and Reggio Calabria. Officials advised the public to avoid outdoor activities between 11:00 and 18:00 following at least four reported heat-related deaths.

Temperatures reached historic highs elsewhere on the continent. Austria set a national record of 40.8 degrees Celsius in a suburb of Vienna. Meanwhile, French health authorities reported over 7,300 excess deaths across 52 heatwave days recorded between May and July. Meteorological agencies warn that temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius will persist across France and the United Kingdom, compounding wildfire hazards and severe drought across the region.

Sources: Aftenposten, Berlingske, DR, TV 2 Nyheter, VG (Verdens Gang)