Central Europe heatwave raises fire and water risks

A heatwave across Central Europe prompted fire bans, cooling centres and energy-saving measures on Friday as authorities warned of pressure on water and power networks.

In Hungary, Prime Minister Peter Magyar called on businesses to voluntarily reduce electricity use. Outdoor fires have been banned, and decorative lighting will be switched off on state buildings to save energy.

In Slovakia, local authorities in Bratislava set up more than 30 cooling stations offering air-conditioned spaces and drinking water.

Slovenia's meteorology agency ARSO placed the western part of the country under an “extremely high” fire risk and banned several activities that could spark fires. Climatologist Gregor Vrtacnik said the heatwave would be extraordinary because of its length as well as its temperatures.

Marine experts said the sea temperature on the Adriatic coast could beat the all-time record of 30.4C recorded in 2010.

Austria recorded temperatures of up to 40C while already experiencing an “extreme” drought, according to Geosphere Austria. The national weather agency said precipitation since the start of the year was about 30 percent below normal levels.