Romania endures extreme heat wave and storm alerts, sparking power cuts and rising electricity bills

From July 19 onward, Romania experienced an intense heat wave with temperatures reaching 37 °C and a heat‑stress index above the critical 80‑unit threshold. The National Meteorological Administration issued multiple yellow, orange and red weather alerts covering most counties – including Argeș, Dâmbovița, Suceava, Satu Mare, Brașov and Galaţi – warning of severe thunderstorms, hail, strong winds and localized flooding. In Bucharest, a red storm warning led to fallen trees, blocked tram lines, flooded streets and temporary power outages, prompting over 140 emergency interventions, primarily to clear debris and restore electricity. Hydrological alerts were also activated, such as a yellow flood warning on the Jijia River and an orange flood alert in Brașov. Concurrently, analysts highlighted the heat wave’s impact on the energy sector: increased air‑conditioning use raised household electricity consumption by 80‑120 lei per month, up to 230 lei for poorly insulated top‑floor apartments, exposing the vulnerability of the Romanian National Energy System and driving higher imports at peak prices. The combined weather and energy challenges affected millions across the country.