Europe Swelters: Sizzling Heatwave Hits Hard

Central and southern Europe are grappling with a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius. Authorities in Italy, Croatia, Romania, and other countries have issued warnings, urging citizens to stay hydrated and avoid going out during peak heat hours. Power consumption surged due to extensive use of air conditioning, and forest fires were reported in multiple locations.

A sweltering heatwave has gripped central and southern Europe, with temperatures surging to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit), creating dangerous conditions for residents.

From Italy to Romania, authorities are urging people to stay hydrated, drive carefully, and avoid the peak heat hours. Italian officials declared a red weather alert in seven cities, including Rome, warning that the combination of heat and humidity could severely impact even healthy individuals.

Similar warnings are echoed in Croatia, where Dubrovnik's main tourism resort recorded 28 degrees Celsius (82.4 Fahrenheit) at dawn. Albania, Bosnia, and Italy report forest fires. Meteorologists predict the current heatwave could persist until the end of July, with temperatures potentially exceeding 40C in parts of Albania, Northern Macedonia, Greece, and Serbia.

Serbia's capital, Belgrade, reported people collapsing from the heat, and power consumption reached levels typical of winter due to air conditioning use. The severe heat follows a powerful storm earlier this month that wreaked havoc across the Balkans.

(With inputs from agencies.)