Romania's heat map turns red as felt temperatures reach 42°C

Romania is grappling with an extreme heatwave, with felt temperatures soaring to 42°C in western cities like Oradea and 40°C in Arad. The National Meteorological Administration (ANM) reported that nearly the entire country is under severe heat warnings, with red alerts covering Crișana, Maramureș, Transilvania, and northern Moldova.

These regions are experiencing temperatures comparable to historical June records, with daytime highs between 35°C and 40°C. The ANM also warned of significant thermal discomfort and tropical nights, where minimum temperatures do not drop below 25°C. Orange alerts were issued for Banat, Oltenia, most of Muntenia and Moldova, with highs between 34°C and 38°C and a critical temperature-humidity index exceeding 80.

The heatwave is set to persist into the beginning of the week, with red alerts expanding to include Banat, Crișana, Maramureș, Transilvania, Moldova, Oltenia, and western Muntenia from June 29 to July 1. Temperatures are forecast to reach 35°C to 41°C, particularly in Banat and Crișana. Dobrogea and eastern Muntenia will remain under orange alerts with highs up to 38°C and tropical nights.

Romania is not alone in facing these extreme conditions, as Spain, Italy, France, and the UK have also issued heat warnings amid a continent-wide heatwave.