Extreme heat persists across Europe as temperatures hit record highs

A relentless series of heatwaves continues to impact Southern and Central Europe, driving temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius and causing thousands of excess deaths. In Italy, health authorities extended a red alert to all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as the country experiences its fourth major heatwave of the year. Officials advised residents to remain indoors between 11:00 and 18:00.

Temperature records are being broken across the continent. Austria registered its highest recorded temperature of 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. Meanwhile, French health authorities reported over 7,300 excess deaths between May and July following 52 days of heatwave conditions since mid-June. Meteorologists warn that high temperatures, severe drought, and elevated wildfire risks will persist across Western and Southern Europe over the coming week.

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