Severe European heatwave brings record temperatures and rising health risks

An ongoing series of heatwaves continues to impact Southern and Central Europe, driving temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius and triggering public health alerts across several nations.

In Italy, health authorities extended red weather warnings to 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, as the country faces its fourth heatwave of the season. Officials urged residents to avoid direct sunlight between 11:00 and 18:00 following at least four heat-related fatalities.

Meanwhile, Austria recorded its highest temperature in history, reaching 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. In France, health officials reported over 7,300 excess deaths associated with more than 50 heatwave days recorded since mid-June. Meteorologists warn that extreme weather, severe drought, and elevated wildfire hazards will persist across Western Europe, with further high temperatures projected for France and the United Kingdom.

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