European heatwave prompts red alerts in Italy and record temperatures across continent

A fourth summer heatwave has swept across Italy, leading health authorities to issue red weather alerts for 27 major cities as temperatures approach 40 degrees Celsius. Public health officials urged residents to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours and take precautions against prolonged heat exposure, following at least four reported deaths.

Extreme weather conditions persist elsewhere in Europe. Austria recorded its highest temperature on record at 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna, while French authorities reported more than 7,300 excess deaths linked to 52 days under heatwave conditions between May and July.

With severe drought and elevated wildfire risks across the region, France and the United Kingdom are preparing for further high temperatures, reflecting a global trend after multiple regions logged their hottest July on record.

Sources: Aftenposten, Berlingske, DR, TV 2 Nyheter, VG