Record temperatures and health alerts spread across Europe in persistent summer heatwave

Extreme heat continues to grip Europe as a fourth summer heatwave brings record temperatures and severe health risks across the continent.

In Italy, health authorities extended red weather alerts to all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as temperatures were projected to reach 40 degrees Celsius. Public health officials urged residents to avoid direct sunlight between 11:00 and 18:00 following four confirmed heat-related deaths.

Central Europe also set weather records, with Austria registering its highest temperature on record at 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. Meanwhile, French health authorities reported more than 7,300 excess deaths linked to 52 days of heatwave conditions recorded since mid-June. Meteorologists warn that severe drought, wildfire risks, and high temperatures will persist, with France and the United Kingdom preparing for further heat spikes.

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