health
Germany and Italy swelter in heatwave as records tumble across Europe
Denmark experiences highest temperature on record on Saturday as weather system spreads eastward

TL;DR
- Germany and Italy are experiencing sweltering conditions with temperatures exceeding 40C.
- Denmark recorded its highest temperature on record at 36.6C.
- Slovakia had its warmest night on record, with temperatures not dropping below 26.3C.
- The heatwave has been linked to multiple deaths, particularly in water-related incidents in the UK.
- Scientists state the heatwave is 100 times more likely due to the human-made climate crisis.
- Record heat has disrupted rail travel, power generation, and led to event postponements in France.
- Italy has issued a red alert for heat in 18 cities.
- Wildfire reports in France are up compared to last year.
- Infrastructure like roads and train tracks are at risk of damage from the heat.
- Germany's national rail operator is offering free cancellations due to strain on infrastructure.
- Asphalt split on a German autobahn due to heat, causing lane closures.
- Public service providers are seeking to reduce traffic to prevent infrastructure damage.
- Cultural landmarks have closed, farming has suffered, and hospitals are struggling.
- Demand for electric fans has surged, with Asian manufacturers reporting a European sales boom.
- Northern European housing is generally built to retain heat, making it difficult to withstand extreme temperatures.