Heatwaves bring record temperatures and thousands of excess deaths across Europe

Extreme heat continues to spread across Europe, prompting high-level weather alerts and causing thousands of excess deaths. Italian health authorities issued a red alert covering all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as the country faces its fourth heatwave of the year. Temperatures in parts of Italy are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius, with officials urging the public to remain indoors during peak hours.

Temperature records are falling elsewhere on the continent. Austria registered its highest temperature ever recorded at 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. In France, health officials reported over 7,300 excess deaths between May and July following 52 days of heatwave conditions. Meteorologists warn that severe heat, drought, and heightened wildfire risks will continue affecting multiple European nations.

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