Central Europe records extreme heat as Italy issues highest alert for major cities

A severe heatwave sweeping Central Europe has pushed temperatures to unprecedented levels, with Slovakia and Austria both recording their highest readings of the year. In Bratislava, the mercury climbed to 38.5 °C, eclipsing the previous summer record, while Vienna saw temperatures reach 39.2 °C, the hottest day since reliable measurements began in the 1950s. Meteorological services in both countries attribute the extreme values to a persistent high‑pressure system that has stalled over the region, drawing hot air from the Mediterranean and limiting cloud cover.

In response to the escalating conditions, Italy’s civil protection agency placed all 27 of the nation’s major cities under the highest heat alert, the first nationwide issuance of its kind. Authorities have activated emergency cooling centers, issued health advisories urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activity during peak hours, and mobilized additional resources for vulnerable populations. Forecast models indicate the heatwave could persist for several more days, prompting neighboring countries to monitor the situation closely and prepare for possible further temperature spikes.