Extreme heatwaves trigger alerts and record temperatures across Europe

Southern and Central Europe continue to grapple with severe summer heatwaves, triggering high-level health warnings and record-breaking temperatures across the continent. Italian authorities extended top-level red heat alerts to all 27 of the country's major cities as the fourth heatwave of the season brought temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius. Health officials advised the public to avoid direct sun exposure during peak daylight hours.

In Austria, meteorologists recorded a national high of 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. Meanwhile, French health authorities confirmed that more than 7,300 excess deaths occurred between May and July following 52 days of heatwave conditions. Western European nations, including France and the United Kingdom, are bracing for additional extreme temperatures, heightening the risk of wildfires and prolonged drought conditions.

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