Record Heatwave Triggers Wildfires and Disruptions Across Southeastern Europe

BELGRADE: A record-breaking heatwave sweeping across Europe has intensified its grip on southeastern countries, sparking wildfires, straining emergency services and prompting authorities to issue high-level weather alerts as temperatures continue to soar.

Croatia has placed major cities and popular tourist destinations, including Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik, under the highest-level red weather alert, while firefighters, assisted by water-dropping aircraft, battled wildfires on the Adriatic island of Vis. Authorities warned residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak daytime temperatures.

In Serbia, temperatures climbed to around 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit), with health officials urging people, particularly the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions, to remain indoors and stay hydrated. Albania also mobilised firefighting teams to contain a wildfire near the village of Klos before it could spread further.

Scientists have described the current event, which began on June 20, as the most severe heatwave ever recorded in Europe, attributing its intensity to human-induced climate change that has significantly increased both daytime and nighttime temperatures. Experts warned that the prolonged spell of extreme heat has placed mounting pressure on power supplies, transportation networks and healthcare systems across the continent.

The heatwave has already been linked to approximately 1,000 excess deaths in France, primarily among elderly people, while authorities in Cyprus confirmed the deaths of two children due to heat-related incidents. In Poland, two cyclists also died as the country registered a new national temperature record of 40.5 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists forecast another surge of intense heat beginning July 5–6, with countries including France, Spain, Germany and Italy expected to face renewed extreme temperatures even as some regions experience localized thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Authorities across Europe continue to urge the public to follow health advisories and wildfire safety measures as the unprecedented heatwave persists.