Europe Hit by Record-Breaking Heatwave: Death Toll Rises

The severe heatwave that has gripped Europe, considered the most intense on record, continues to spread from the western to the central parts of the continent. The extreme temperatures have paralyzed transportation, put a strain on hospitals, and led to dozens of deaths. The French Public Health Agency reported an estimated additional thousand deaths.The heat dome effect, characterized by clear skies and intense sunshine, has shattered records with temperatures reaching 41.5 degrees in Germany, 38.8 degrees in Basel, Switzerland, 40.6 degrees in the Czech Republic, 37 degrees in Denmark, and at least 40 degrees in France. In some regions of France, temperatures exceeded 40 degrees this week, resulting in increased emergency calls and pressure on hospitals and emergency services.The French Public Health Agency noted that the most affected areas are under red heat alert, with 85% of the deaths occurring among people aged 65 and above. In Germany, highway concrete cracked due to the heat, and a section of the A2 highway was closed to traffic. Deutsche Bahn advised against non-essential travel. In a nursing home, dozens of elderly residents were evacuated after the indoor temperature rose to 35 degrees, resulting in one fatality.