Europe gripped by severe heatwave and wildfires, Italy on highest alert

A severe heatwave continues to affect central and southern Europe, with Italy placing all 27 of its major cities on the highest heat alert as temperatures approach 40°C. Austria has recorded a new record temperature, and Hungary has curbed power use due to the heat and drought. Wildfires are ongoing in Greece and Albania, with 500 firefighters battling blazes near Mount Keeronas in Greece. The relentless heat is causing water levels in major rivers like the Rhine to fall to record lows, impacting shipping.