Record-breaking heatwaves wreak havoc in Europe, with 22 cities on red alert, including France, Spain, and Italy.
Suspense Crime, Digital Desk : European countries have been experiencing record-breaking heat for the past week. This heat has caused hundreds of deaths across the continent, disrupted daily life, and increased the number of forest fires.
Meteorologists have also warned that from the beginning of next week, the heat may increase again in countries like France and Germany, which have seen the maximum impact of heat in the last few days.
Red alert in 22 Italian cities
The record-breaking heatwave that has been sweeping across Europe for the past week has now engulfed Italy and the Balkan countries. A "red heat warning" has been issued for 22 cities, from Bolzano in northern Italy to Palermo on the southern island of Sicily.
Heat wave hits Vatican City
The effects of this intense heat were also evident in Vatican City, where a large crowd gathered to hear Pope Leo's traditional "Angelus" message on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul. Pilgrims were seen constantly resorting to fans and umbrellas to protect themselves from the scorching sun.
Red alert issued
Meanwhile, the weather service issued a "red alert" for several areas, including Croatia's capital, Zagreb, and the tourist-favorite cities of Split and Dubrovnik. A massive fire broke out in the pine forests of Vis Island, located in the Adriatic Sea about 55 kilometers from Split. Four aircraft and dozens of firefighters had to be deployed to extinguish it.
The worst heat wave
Scientists say the heat wave, which began on June 20, is the worst ever recorded in Europe. The extreme heat has disrupted power generation, damaged infrastructure, and put a heavy strain on healthcare systems. France has recorded 1,000 additional deaths during this heat wave.
The heat will rise again
Luca Mercalli, president of the Italian Meteorological Society, said temperatures are expected to rise again from July 5-6. "The affected areas are broadly similar to those of the first wave, including France, Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and, to a lesser extent, Britain," he said.
"With the intense heat comes an increased risk of wildfires, but there is also the possibility of heavy rain and storms," he added.
