A severe European heatwave gripping Europe is moving east, with red warnings issued in Hungary, Poland, Romania, and the Balkans. Budapest is forecast to exceed 40C on Tuesday, while Kosovo's weather bureau expects temperatures to peak at 38C on Monday. The heatwave has already had a devastating impact on Europe, with over 1,300 deaths reported, and countries are struggling to respond to the crisis.
The heatwave started in Western Europe, with record-breaking temperatures reported last week, and is now shifting eastwards to the Balkans, with temperatures expected to remain high throughout the week. Temperatures reached 40 degrees Celsius in parts of Europe on Sunday, breaking all-time records in Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Vulnerable residents, workers, and the general population are being affected, with many being advised to stay indoors during the day, and some governments taking emergency measures such as banning alcohol sales and canceling large outdoor events.
A landfill fire near the Bosnian city of Mostar has been largely extinguished, but the risk of wildfires remains high. Governments in the Balkans are under pressure to respond to the crisis, with some taking emergency measures to mitigate its effects. The European Union has called for increased cooperation to tackle the crisis. With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the week, the coming days will be crucial in determining the full extent of the damage.
As the heatwave continues to shift eastwards, the region is bracing for a potentially deadly combination of sweltering temperatures and wildfires. The high death toll and widespread disruption are highlighting the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of climate change. The situation is being closely monitored, with the European Union and national governments working to respond to the crisis and provide support to those affected.