Southern and Western Europe face historic temperatures amid summer heatwaves

Extreme summer heatwaves continue to sweep across Western and Southern Europe, driving temperatures toward historic highs and placing public health systems under severe pressure.

Italy's health ministry extended red heat alerts to all 27 of its major cities as the country experiences its fourth heatwave this year. Authorities urged residents to remain indoors during peak daylight hours after several heat-related fatalities were reported. Meanwhile, Austria recorded its highest temperature on record, reaching 40.8 degrees Celsius near Vienna.

In France, health officials reported over 7,300 excess deaths linked to persistent heat across May, June, and July, amid 52 heatwave days recorded since mid-June. Meteorological services in France and the United Kingdom warn of additional temperature surges reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius alongside widespread drought conditions.

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