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Extreme heatwave brings record temperatures and health warnings across Europe

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Sep 12, 2026, 04:30 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-09-12-1630
Extreme heatwave brings record temperatures and health warnings across Europe
Photo: DR

Record temperatures hit Austria while Italy issues red alerts for major cities amid worsening heatwaves and thousands of excess deaths across Europe.

Extreme heat continues to affect multiple European countries, with temperatures reaching historic highs and health authorities issuing severe warnings. Austria recorded its highest temperature on record on Tuesday, reaching 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. Meanwhile, Italy has extended red heat alerts to all 27 of its major cities as temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius are expected to persist for another week. Italian officials advised the public to remain indoors during peak daylight hours following recent heat-related fatalities.

In France, health authorities reported more than 7,300 excess deaths during heatwaves spanning May, June, and July, amid 52 days of heatwave conditions since mid-June. The United Kingdom and France are preparing for further temperature spikes up to 40 degrees Celsius, alongside severe drought conditions and wildfire threats across Western Europe.

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

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