A powerful heat wave has swept across Eastern Europe and the Balkans, with temperatures expected to reach 44 degrees Celsius in some areas.

New temperature records have been recorded in several places, while meteorologists warn that storms, hail and heavy rainfall are expected after the extreme heat.

Hungary is among the countries hardest hit by the heatwave. In Budapest, temperatures have exceeded 42 degrees Celsius, marking one of the hottest days recorded in the country.

Authorities have issued warnings of high risk from extreme temperatures, while citizens have been urged to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and physical activity during the hottest hours.

The heat has also had consequences for the energy sector. The increase in the temperature of the Danube River has affected the operation of the Paks nuclear power plant, which uses the river's water for cooling. To guarantee energy supply, Hungarian authorities have taken special measures, reports index.hr.

In Croatia, a heat wave has brought extremely high temperatures. A new absolute record was recorded in Split, with 39.2 degrees Celsius, while the Croatian Meteorological Service (DHMZ) has warned that after days of extreme heat, sudden changes in the weather are expected, with storms, strong winds and the possibility of hail.

Meteorologists warn that the weather change could be rapid, especially in the northern and coastal parts of the country, where the contrast between very high temperatures and colder air masses could create conditions for powerful storms.

Slovenia has also been affected by the heat wave that has affected the region.

High temperatures have been accompanied by heatwave warnings, while meteorologists have announced that after the dry and hot period, worsening weather is expected, with torrential rainfall and local storms.

The situation is particularly dire in Romania, where temperatures in some parts of the country have reached up to 44 degrees Celsius, causing concerns about citizens' health and coping with extreme weather conditions.

Experts point out that the current heatwave is part of a wider trend of increasingly hot summers in Europe, with extreme temperatures becoming more frequent and intense. /Telegraph/

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