Extreme Heat Continues in Central and Eastern Europe With Temperatures of 38C Expected

A severe heatwave continues to grip central and Eastern Europe, with temperatures soaring and records tumbling. Cities like Warsaw, Belgrade, Bratislava, and Budapest are bracing for highs of up to 38C (100.4F) on Monday. On Sunday, Czechia, Germany, and Poland all shattered their all-time temperature records. In Warsaw, the local time was 9 a.m. and the temperature had already reached 32C, with residents seeking ways to cope, including using large fans to stay cool.

The extreme heat follows a week of sweltering conditions across the continent. Forecasters predict that the heatwave will persist in the region before potentially giving way to violent thunderstorms later in the evening, mirroring weather patterns seen in Western Europe earlier in the week. The unusual summer temperatures have become a significant talking point, with residents adapting in creative ways to endure the oppressive heat.

Amidst the extreme weather, several political events are also unfolding across Europe. NATO's Mark Rutte is meeting with Britain's outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London. Meanwhile, EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič is hosting China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Brussels, and Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is visiting Marco Rubio in Washington D.C. These diplomatic engagements are taking place against the backdrop of the ongoing heat crisis affecting millions across the continent.