Extreme heatwave sweeps Europe as Austria sets national record and France reports excess deaths

Europe is confronting a fourth major summer heatwave, with extreme temperatures causing severe health hazards, wildfires, and record-breaking weather across the continent.

In Italy, health authorities issued red alerts for all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as temperatures near 40 degrees Celsius. Officials urged the public to refrain from outdoor activities between 11:00 and 18:00 following at least four heat-related fatalities.

Meanwhile, Austria recorded a new national temperature record of 40.8 degrees Celsius in a Vienna suburb. In France, public health officials reported over 7,300 excess deaths associated with 52 heatwave days recorded between May and July. Meteorological services in France and the United Kingdom warn of persistent temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius, exacerbating regional drought conditions and wildfire risks.

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