Europe faces record temperatures and excess deaths in fourth summer heatwave

Extreme weather conditions continue across Southern and Central Europe as a fourth heatwave brings record-breaking temperatures and health risks to the continent. Italian authorities extended red weather warnings to all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as daytime temperatures neared 40 degrees Celsius. Officials advised residents to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours following at least four recent heat-related fatalities.

The severe conditions have broken meteorological records across multiple nations. Austria registered its highest temperature on record at 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. Meanwhile, French health authorities reported over 7,300 excess deaths tied to 52 days of heatwave conditions since May. Western European countries, including the United Kingdom and France, are preparing for further temperature spikes alongside persistent drought and elevated wildfire hazards.

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