Temperatures across central and eastern Europe have surged to unprecedented levels, with Germany, Czechia, Poland, and Hungary all registering record highs as a severe heatwave continues to spread across the continent.
Authorities report that more than 191 million people across Europe have been exposed to temperatures of 35°C or higher, as extreme heat alerts remain in effect across multiple countries.
Germany recorded its highest-ever temperature of 41.7°C in Coschen, near the Polish border in Brandenburg, surpassing the previous record of 41.5°C set only a day earlier in Drewitz. The extreme heat has intensified fire risks, including in areas contaminated with World War II-era munitions.
In eastern Germany, a wildfire broke out in Gohrischheide, prompting major firefighting operations, while another blaze near Traisen forced a temporary evacuation of around 650 residents. Operations in some areas were halted after explosions linked to old ordnance, requiring intervention from bomb disposal units.
Berlin authorities used water cannon sprays to cool public spaces, while the national rail operator Deutsche Bahn urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel due to dangerous conditions.
