Romania has placed nearly the entire country under a red weather alert as an intense heatwave pushes temperatures to record levels, prompting authorities to warn residents of dangerous conditions.

The Romanian National Meteorological Administration issued the highest-level heat warning for Bucharest and 35 surrounding counties, forecasting extremely high temperatures across much of the country.

According to local media, maximum temperatures are expected to approach or match June records, with daytime highs ranging between 35 and 41 degrees Celsius. The highest temperatures are forecast in the northwestern regions of Banat and Crișana.

Nighttime temperatures are expected to remain unusually high, dropping only to between 17 and 25 degrees Celsius, offering little relief from the prolonged heat.

Heatwave affects much of Europe

Romania is among several European countries experiencing one of the most intense heatwaves on record. Temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in France, Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom and other parts of the continent.

In response to the extreme weather, authorities in several European countries have issued red weather alerts, closed schools, restricted outdoor public events and urged residents to limit time spent outside during the hottest hours of the day.

The ongoing heatwave has also disrupted transportation networks, contributed to deteriorating air quality and been linked to an increase in heat-related incidents and accidents across parts of Europe.

Authorities continue to advise the public to remain hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours and closely follow official weather updates as the heatwave persists.(ILKHA)