New heat record in Vienna at 40.1C; highest weather warning for eastern Austria

Vienna has shattered its all-time temperature record, reaching a scorching 40.1 degrees Celsius on Monday afternoon. The new high was registered at the Geosphere Austria weather station in Stammersdorf, surpassing the previous record of 40 degrees Celsius, which was only set in late June during the last heatwave.

The extreme heatwave gripping Austria shows no signs of immediate relief. Geosphere Austria has issued the highest weather warning, red, for Tuesday and Wednesday across Vienna, northern Burgenland, and northeastern Lower Austria. Temperatures are forecast to remain high across the east on Thursday, with only a slight moderation expected by Friday, when highs could still reach 33 degrees Celsius.

This intense heatwave is now approaching its peak, with the national all-time temperature record of 40.5 degrees Celsius, recorded in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg in 2013, potentially in jeopardy. The red warning signifies not only high daytime temperatures but also minimal nighttime cooling, with expected lows between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius, and even above 23 degrees Celsius in rural areas.

Authorities are urging residents in the affected red zones to take precautions. Recommendations include avoiding direct sunlight, especially for children, and staying away from paved, shaded areas. It is advised to remain indoors between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM, keep curtains and blinds closed, and open windows primarily during cooler night and morning hours. Physical exertion should be minimized, with outdoor activities shifted to early morning or evening. Staying hydrated with at least two to three liters of water, unsweetened tea, or diluted fruit juices is crucial, while alcohol consumption should be avoided. Special attention should be paid to the fluid intake of the elderly and children.