Extreme heat continues across Europe with record temperatures and red alerts

Western and Southern Europe are facing severe weather conditions as the continent encounters its fourth major heatwave of the year. Italian health authorities issued top-level red alerts for all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as temperatures near 40°C are predicted to last through the coming week. At least four heat-related deaths have been recorded in Italy, prompting official recommendations to remain indoors during peak daytime hours.

In Central Europe, Austria's national meteorological service reported a preliminary record temperature of 40.8°C in Stammersdorf, near Vienna, surpassing the previous record set in 2013. Meanwhile, France and the United Kingdom are preparing for renewed high temperatures alongside ongoing risks of drought and severe wildfires.

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