Heatwave brings record temperatures and red alerts across Europe

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Aug 13, 2026, 03:30 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-08-13-1530
Heatwave brings record temperatures and red alerts across Europe
Photo: DR

Western and Central Europe face severe heat as Italy issues red alerts for 27 cities and Austria records a historic temperature high of 40.8°C.

Extreme weather conditions persist across Southern, Central, and Western Europe as a fourth heatwave brings dangerous temperatures to the continent. Italian health authorities issued red heat alerts for 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, with temperatures approaching 40°C expected to endure through the coming week. Officials confirmed at least four heat-related fatalities and advised the public to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.

In Central Europe, Austria's meteorological service GeoSphere registered a preliminary national record temperature of 40.8°C in Stammersdorf, near Vienna, surpassing the previous record set in 2013. Meanwhile, France and the United Kingdom are preparing for elevated temperatures alongside persistent drought conditions and heightened wildfire risks.

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

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