Western Europe faces intensified heatwave as Rhine levels drop and wildfires spread

Extreme weather conditions continue across Western Europe as temperatures are forecast to reach up to 39 degrees Celsius. The Deutscher Wetterdienst has issued official heat warnings across central and southern German states, alongside alerts for heavy thunderstorms, hail, and strong gusts.

Severe drought has significantly impacted shipping, with the Rhine River's water level at Kaub falling to its lowest point since 1880. Meanwhile, emergency services across Southwestern Europe continue to combat widespread blazes. In France, an uncontrolled fire near Bordeaux has disrupted local tourism, while additional wildfires remain active across Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands near the German border.

Sources: Die Zeit, DW, FAZ, ORF, Tagesschau