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2026 European heatwave

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2026-07-31 21:45 UTC → 2026-08-01 01:53 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In early July 2026 Europe was hit by an unprecedented early‑summer heat wave described as historic across the continent. By the end of the month the heat persisted, with Germany recording temperatures above 35 °C and issuing nationwide health warnings. The German Weather Service added alerts for strong thunderstorms, heavy rain and hail, while insurance data showed a rise in the average cost of lightning‑related claims. Data from 2025 indicated that although the total number of lightning and surge damage claims fell, the average payout per claim rose, reflecting higher repair costs for modern equipment—a trend that continued into the 2026 heatwave. The July 31 news roundup linked the ongoing heat to a series of serious road accidents in Austria, Germany, Switzerland and other countries, and also reported a mammoth jaw, tusks and rib uncovered in Bulgaria. On the night of 31 July a severe thunderstorm swept the Sächsische Schweiz region of Saxony, killing a man when a falling tree struck him on a path to the Felsenbühne open‑air theatre and injuring several others. The ~~heat wave therefore continued throughout July, influencing public‑health advisories, infrastructure risks~~ storm caused widespread disruption across Germany, including fallen trees, power‑line breaks and ~~related news coverage.~~ flooded underpasses in Stuttgart, Hamburg and other cities, prompting dozens of emergency deployments. Performances at the Felsenbühne were cancelled through at least Monday while damage was assessed.

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