Europe: High temperatures forecast to persist across central, eastern, and southern Europe through at least July 12

Event

High temperatures are forecast across parts of central, eastern, and southern Europe through at least July 12. The affected areas include parts of Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Czech Republic, eastern and southeastern France, central and southern Germany, Hungary, Italy, Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland. Maximum temperatures of around 25-25 C (77-95 F) are expected across much of the region, with localized higher temperatures; highs could reach above 38 C (100 F) in Italy's island regions of Sardinia and Sicily.

As of July 10, the various meteorological services for the respective countries have issued the following heat-related warnings across the region:

• Orange high-temperature warnings: Across much of eastern and southern Austria; parts of the southern Czech Republic; Karlovac and Rijeka regions in Croatia; parts of Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes and Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur regions in east-central and southeastern France; Bacs-Kiskun, Csongrad-Csanad, and Gyor-Moson Sopron counties in Hungary; Lazio, Sardinia, and Sicily regions in Italy; parts of southern, western, and west-central Slovakia; central, northeastern, southeastern, and southwestern Slovenia; and across much of the northern half of Switzerland and some southeastern and southern regions.

• Yellow high-temperature warnings: Across much of the rest of the affected area.

The German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued the lowest of two levels of heat warnings across most of central and southern Germany. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The high temperatures may result in increased energy and water demand and a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur as very high temperatures stress vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heat waves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating - drink bottled water or water that has been boiled. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

Meteo Alarm
Austria Central Institution for Meteorology, and Geodynamics (ZAMG)
Bosnia and Herzegovina Federal Hydrometeorological Institute
Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI)
Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ)
Meteo France
German Meteorological Service (DWD)
Meteorological Service of Hungary
Italy Meteorological Service
Montenegro Institute for Hydrometeorology and Seismology (ZHMS)
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia
Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMU)
Slovenian Environment Agency (ARSO)
MeteoSwiss