373 Austrian municipalities record very high heat stress this year

Austria is facing an unusually high level of heat stress this year, according to an interactive map created by researchers at Vienna's Complexity Science Hub (CSH). The analysis reveals that as of August 1, a total of 373 municipalities and 22 districts have recorded "very high" heat stress values.

This year's figures represent a stark increase compared to previous years. In 2024, for instance, only 25 districts registered high heat load for the entire year. In 2025, the number dropped to just 14 districts. The current data indicates a prolonged and intense heatwave affecting many parts of the country.

Some areas have experienced exceptionally long periods of high temperatures. In Bregenz, the heatwave lasted for an unprecedented 61 days. The CSH's interactive map calculates a heat stress index for all districts and municipalities, providing a detailed overview of the situation across Austria. The findings highlight the severity of the current climate conditions and their impact on the population.