Heat Alert Across Europe; Messi Sets World Cup Record; Fuel Prices Drop in Austria

Lionel Messi has shattered the World Cup goal-scoring record, netting his 17th and 18th goals in Argentina's 2-0 win against Austria. The 38-year-old superstar surpassed Germany's Miroslav Klose, who previously held the record with 16 World Cup goals. This defeat marks Austria's second group stage loss, leaving their advancement hopes hanging on their upcoming match against Algeria.

Meanwhile, Europe is grappling with a severe heatwave, the second of the year. Spain is bracing for temperatures up to 44 degrees Celsius, while France has issued the highest "Red" heat warning for over half its territory. The extreme heat has led to school closures and canceled train services. Tragically, two children died in France after being left in a car during the high temperatures. International weather services confirm the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, citing Pacific Ocean water temperatures and wind patterns.

In Austria, the weather forecast predicts sunshine with potential thunderstorms over the mountains. Morning temperatures range from 14 to 22 degrees Celsius, with daytime highs reaching 29 to 34 degrees. By Friday, temperatures could climb as high as 37 degrees Celsius. These heat conditions are occurring as international weather services confirm the progression of El Niño.

On the economic front, fuel prices in Austria are trending downward, approaching levels seen before the Iran conflict. As of Sunday, gasoline averaged 1.614 euros per liter and diesel 1.685 euros. This contrasts with prices before the recent Middle East war, when gasoline cost 1.52 euros and diesel 1.57 euros. Prices peaked in late March at around 1.9 euros for gasoline and 2.2 euros for diesel.

Additionally, a popular initiative for free contraception has garnered significant support, with the registration deadline for five public petitions closing Monday evening. The initiative for free contraception appears to be the most strongly supported.