Fourth heatwave hits Europe as temperatures reach record highs

European nations continue to battle severe weather conditions as a fourth summer heatwave spreads across the continent, driving temperatures toward 40 degrees Celsius and elevating health risks.

Italian authorities expanded top-level red health alerts to cover all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, following at least four heat-related deaths. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during peak daylight hours. Meanwhile, Austrian meteorologists confirmed a new national temperature record of 40.8 degrees Celsius recorded near Vienna.

In France, public health officials reported more than 7,300 excess deaths linked to extreme heat across May, June, and July, with the country experiencing 52 heatwave days since mid-June. Forecasters warn that both France and the United Kingdom face imminent temperature spikes, exacerbating ongoing drought conditions and elevated wildfire risks across Western and Southern Europe.

Sources: Aftenposten, Berlingske, DR, TV 2 Nyheter, VG