A significant heatwave is affecting central and eastern Europe, with temperatures expected to exceed 40°C in Budapest and reaching 38°C in Belgrade and 37°C in Bucharest. Authorities have issued red warnings and advised residents to stay indoors as the extreme heat has already been linked to numerous fatalities in western Europe.
In response to the rising temperatures, Hungary has opened over 2,000 cooling centers, while energy officials are taking measures to manage power output at the Paks nuclear plant. The heat is exacerbating existing vulnerabilities in the region's infrastructure and energy systems.