Record-breaking heatwave continues in central and eastern Europe, with at least 130 million Europeans expected to see temperatures of 35°C and above today. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
According to AFP analysis, at least 130 million people will experience temperatures of 35°C and above today. This is significantly more than mid-last week when the heatwave peaked in Britain.
Balkans on alert
As a record-breaking heatwave swept across Europe, the Balkans remained on alert for sweltering temperatures on Monday, prompting health warnings and sparking wildfires. Although heat was easing in parts of western Europe, temperatures were expected to climb again in the continent's east on Monday.
In Croatia, as in most of the Balkans, authorities warned of dangerous conditions, with both Bosnia and Albania predicting temperatures of up to 40°C. After battling for days with a landfill fire near the Bosnian city of Mostar, firefighters said they had largely managed to extinguish the blaze. Kosovo's weather bureau said temperatures were expected to peak at 38°C on Monday, and advised vulnerable residents to stay indoors during the day.
Czech Republic records all-time high temperatures
The Czech Republic has been grappling with an unprecedented heatwave for the past two weeks. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) said half of its 171 weather stations registered record-high temperatures on Sunday, while more than 95 percent marked a record for June. Prague is expected to see temperatures around 33-34°C today, with thunderstorms later on.
Berlin police uses water cannons
Record-high temperatures were also recorded in Germany over the weekend, with reports of wildfires. Berlin police used water cannons to cool down crowds at a Bruno Mars concert. In Gohrischheide, eastern Germany, a fire broke out in a forest contaminated with ammunition from World War II, complicating firefighting efforts.
Train disruptions reported
Train disruptions were reported over the weekend as Europe battled the heatwave. In Germany, ICE high-speed trains were delayed, and some routes were cancelled. In France, SNCF limited train speeds.
France looks into excess deaths
France's health ministry is investigating excess deaths caused by the heatwave. Preliminary data suggests over 100 deaths last week due to heat.
Heatwave in pictures
At the Vatican, a woman uses a fan while holding a baby during Mass led by Pope Leo. In Warsaw, municipal water misting sprayers operate. In London, heatwave advisories are displayed ahead of the Wimbledon tournament.