European heatwave triggers red alerts in Italy and record temperatures in Austria

Europe continues to experience extreme heat as a fourth heatwave hits Italy, prompting health officials to issue top-level red weather alerts for all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria. Temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius are expected to persist for another week, following four reported heat-related deaths. Meanwhile, temperature records are falling across the continent. Austria registered its highest-ever temperature of 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. In France, health authorities reported more than 7,300 excess deaths linked to 52 heatwave days recorded since mid-June. Meteorologists warn that incoming hot conditions in France and the United Kingdom will further intensify ongoing drought and wildfire risks across Europe.

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