Record heatwaves and low river levels hit Western Europe as wildfires rage

Extreme heat and prolonged drought continue to sweep across Europe, driving water levels on major waterways to historic lows. In Germany, the Rhine's water level at Kaub dropped to its lowest point since 1880, while sections of the Danube and Lake Constance also reported record-low July levels.

The German Weather Service warned of incoming temperatures reaching up to 39 degrees Celsius alongside risks of severe thunderstorms. Meanwhile, Southern and Western Europe remain heavily impacted. Emergency crews in France, Spain, and Portugal continue to battle persistent wildfires, including an uncontained blaze near Bordeaux that has halted local tourism. In Italy, health authorities elevated all 27 major cities to the highest heat warning level, designating the extreme conditions as a severe risk for the entire population.

Sources: Der Spiegel, DW, FAZ, ORF, Tagesschau