Europe faces severe heatwave as Austria records all-time high temperature
Europe confronts extreme heat as Austria records a preliminary high of 40.8°C and Italy extends red weather alerts across 27 major cities amid rising health risks.
Severe heatwaves continue across Europe as national meteorological agencies report record-breaking temperatures and heightened public health risks. In Austria, the GeoSphere weather service reported a preliminary national record of 40.8 degrees Celsius in Stammersdorf, north of Vienna, surpassing the previous peak set in 2013.
In Italy, the Ministry of Health extended top-tier red alerts to all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as the country endures its fourth heatwave of the season with temperatures forecast near 40 degrees Celsius. Authorities have linked at least four deaths to the heat and urged the public to stay indoors during peak daylight hours. Meanwhile, weather services across Western Europe, including in France and the United Kingdom, are forecasting sustained high temperatures, compounding ongoing drought and wildfire risks across the continent.
Sources: Aftenposten, Berlingske, DR, TV 2 Nyheter, VG (Verdens Gang)
Sources
- Aftenposten — Rekordhøy temperatur målt i Østerrike: 40,8 grader i dag
- Berlingske — Østrig måler højeste temperatur nogensinde
- TV 2 Nyheter — Italia koker: Rødt farevarsel i 27 byer
- DR — Italiens sundhedsministerium advarer om ekstrem varme
- VG (Verdens Gang) — Ny hetebølge rammer Europa: Opp mot 40 grader
Earlier coverage
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- Oct 14, 2026, 05:30 PM UTCEurope faces escalating fourth heatwave as temperatures hit historic highs
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- Oct 13, 2026, 11:00 AM UTCExtreme heatwave sweeps Europe as Austria sets temperature record
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