Extreme heat sweeps Europe as temperature records fall and health warnings expand

Southern and Western Europe are facing persistent extreme heat as a fourth heatwave sweeps across Italy and temperatures approach 40 degrees Celsius in multiple nations. Italian health authorities issued red weather alerts for all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, advising the public to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours following at least four heat-related deaths.

Meanwhile, Austria registered an all-time temperature record of 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. In France, health officials reported more than 7,300 excess deaths linked to 52 heatwave days recorded between May and July. Meteorological agencies in France and the United Kingdom are now warning of another incoming heat spike, while ongoing drought conditions exacerbate wildfire risks across the region after several areas recorded their hottest July on record.

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