Extreme heatwave persists across Europe as temperatures hit record highs

A fourth summer heatwave continues to bring severe temperatures and elevated health risks across Southern and Central Europe. In Italy, health officials extended red weather warnings to all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as temperatures approached 40 degrees Celsius. Italian authorities instructed the public to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours, following at least four recent heat-related fatalities.

Record-breaking weather has affected multiple countries. Austria recorded its highest temperature on record, reaching 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. In France, public health authorities reported over 7,300 excess deaths attributed to 52 days of heatwave conditions since May. Meteorologists warn that high temperatures, drought, and wildfire hazards are expected to persist across Western and Southern Europe, with the United Kingdom and France preparing for further temperature spikes.

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