Europe: High temperatures forecast to persist across most of central and southern regions through at least July 24 /update 3

Event

High temperatures are forecast across most of central and southern Europe through at least July 24. Maximum temperatures of around 30-44 C (86-111 F) are forecast across much of the region, with localized higher temperatures.

As of early July 17, the various meteorological services for the respective countries have issued the following heat-related warnings across the region:

• Red high-temperature warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Banja Luka, Mostar, Prijedor, and Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Split Region in Croatia; Southern Great Plain Region in Hungary; Apulia, Calabria, Sardinia, and Sicily regions in Italy; Kosovo; Serbia, and northern Andalusia Autonomous Community in Spain.
• Orange high-temperature warnings: eastern and southeastern Austria; the rest of Bosnia and Herzegovina; the rest of Croatia; eastern and central Czech Republic; far western and far eastern Greece; the rest of Hungary; central Italy; North Macedonia; most of Poland; southern and western Romania; far southern Slovakia, and most of Slovenia; central and southern Spain.
• Yellow high-temperature warnings: across the rest of the affected area.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days. Authorities have warned that the high temperatures will likely peak in Italy July 19-23 and Greece July 20-23.

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 Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics
Bosnia and Herzegovina Federal Hydrometeorological Institute
Bulgaria National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH)
Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ)
Czech Hydrometeorological Institute
Hellenic National Meteorological Service
Meteorological Service of Hungary
Italy Meteorological Service
Poland Institute of Meteorology and Water Management
Romania National Meteorological Administration
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia
Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute
Slovenia Meteorological Office
Spain Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia