Heatwaves trigger record temperatures and health warnings across Europe

A fourth major summer heatwave is impacting Southern and Western Europe, driving record temperatures and growing public health emergencies.

In Italy, health authorities issued red heat alerts for all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as temperatures are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius. Officials urged the public to stay indoors between 11:00 and 18:00 and take precautions to prevent heat-related illness.

Meanwhile, Austria recorded its highest temperature on record at 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. In France, health officials reported over 7,300 excess deaths linked to recurring heatwaves spanning 52 days since mid-June. Meteorologists warn of severe drought and high wildfire risks across the continent, with further heat spikes anticipated in the United Kingdom and France.

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