01
Key points
- Athens, Rome and Valencia opened additional public cooling centres on Friday.
- Daytime temperatures are forecast to remain above 40°C across parts of southern Europe.
- Health authorities urged older residents and outdoor workers to limit exposure.
- Night-time temperatures are expected to stay unusually high through Sunday.
02
Cities expand heat response
Municipal authorities across southern Europe extended cooling-centre hours and added shaded rest areas as the latest heatwave intensified.
03
Health guidance
Public health agencies advised residents to avoid strenuous activity during the afternoon and to check on people living alone.
04
Forecast
Meteorological services expect the most intense temperatures to ease after Sunday, although overnight heat will remain a concern.
How the story developed
A living timeline
All times shown in UTC
Heat alert issued
Health ministries publish coordinated guidance for the weekend.
Cooling centres expand
Three major cities extend operating hours and open new locations.
Source transparency