Widespread European heatwaves break records and raise health alerts

Record-breaking temperatures and prolonged heatwaves are continuing to affect large parts of Western and Southern Europe, escalating public health risks and environmental pressure. In Austria, a suburb of Vienna reached a historical high of 40.8 degrees Celsius, while French health authorities reported more than 7,300 excess deaths linked to 52 days of intense heat recorded between May and July.

Italy has placed all 27 of its largest cities under a red weather alert as its fourth major heatwave of the season persists, with temperatures expected to stay near 40 degrees Celsius over the coming week. Officials across affected countries are urging citizens to limit exposure to direct sunlight during peak daytime hours, stay hydrated, and prepare for further high temperatures that threaten to intensify regional wildfire risks and ongoing droughts.

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