Southern and Central Europe face severe impact from fourth summer heatwave

Extreme temperatures continue to impact Europe as a fourth summer heatwave brings severe health risks, record temperatures, and elevated mortality across the continent.

In Italy, health authorities extended red weather alerts to all 27 major cities, including Messina and Reggio Calabria, with temperatures expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius. Officials urged the public to remain indoors between 11:00 and 18:00 following at least four heat-related fatalities.

National temperature records were shattered in Central Europe, with Austria recording its highest temperature on record at 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna. Meanwhile, French health authorities reported more than 7,300 excess deaths attributed to 52 days of heatwave conditions since May. Meteorologists warn that high temperatures, drought, and wildfire hazards will persist, with the United Kingdom and France preparing for further temperature surges.

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