Large parts of central and southern Europe are set to experience extreme temperatures approaching 40C as a heatwave moves eastwards. This follows a heatwave in western Europe last week and is raising concerns about an energy crunch in affected countries.
Hungary has been compelled to shut down most of its only nuclear power plant, which supplies a significant portion of its energy. This marks the first such shutdown in 44 years, attributed to the drying of the Danube river making safe cooling impossible. The plant is expected to be fully powered down later this week as river levels are projected to fall further.
Today, Budapest and Vienna are forecast to see temperatures of up to 37C, with Zagreb at 36C, Tirana at 35C, and Bucharest at 33C. These high temperatures are anticipated to persist for up to five days. Western European cities are also experiencing significant heat, with Rome at 36C and Paris at 34C.
Romania and Serbia have also reported their lowest-ever water levels, which is causing problems for hydropower generation. In Hungary, digital advertising screens will be turned off today as part of broader energy-saving efforts.