As a wave of scorching hot air from Africa engulfs southern Europe and the Balkans, 12 cities in Italy have been placed under the highest state of heat emergency by the health ministry. Temperatures soared over 40 degrees Celsius, with even hotter conditions expected in the coming days. The entire region is grappling with extreme heat, wildfires, and record-breaking temperatures, leading to concerns about public health and safety.

Croatia witnessed the highest-ever temperatures of the Adriatic Sea, with the thermometer reaching nearly 30 degrees Celsius in the popular tourism spot of Dubrovnik. Serbia, on the other hand, experienced a surge in power consumption due to the widespread use of air conditioning. Municipal authorities across the affected areas have taken precautionary measures to protect vulnerable groups like the elderly, while firefighting crews have been battling wildfires in Italy and North Macedonia.

In Greece, where temperatures are expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius, certain forms of outdoor work have been banned during the hottest hours of the day. Municipalities have also made air-conditioned spaces available to the public. Spain's national weather service predicts that thermometers could reach a scorching 44 degrees Celsius in the coming days, particularly in the southern Guadalquivir river basin.

Across the affected countries, temperatures are expected to remain high, with some areas forecasting temperatures as high as 42 degrees Celsius. The heat is causing enough concern that Rome's zoo is planning to provide popsicle treats for animals to help them cope with the soaring temperatures.

In Albania, a tragic heat-related death occurred as a 72-year-old man was found dead on his farm. While there is no official confirmation from health authorities, the extreme heat is believed to be the cause. Tirana, the capital of Albania, has seen empty streets and cafes, with residents using umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun. Wildfires fueled by high temperatures and strong winds have also been devastating various regions.

Meanwhile, even Istanbul, with comparatively cooler temperatures of 34 degrees Celsius, issued a heat warning, advising residents, especially vulnerable individuals, to stay indoors between 10 am and 4 pm. The advisory also emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and wearing lightweight clothing.

In Paris, the host city for the upcoming Olympics, temperatures remained relatively cooler at 22 degrees Celsius, offering temporary relief from the scorching heatwave affecting neighboring countries. However, fluctuations in temperatures are expected in the coming days.

As the heatwave continues, concerns about climate change and its impact on weather patterns in the region also emerge. Residents and tourists alike are feeling the intensity of the heat, with one concert-goer describing the conditions as being in "an oven with a hair dryer pointed at us."

While efforts are being made to mitigate the effects of the heatwave, including firefighting and public health measures, the situation remains challenging. Authorities are urging people to take necessary precautions, stay hydrated, and seek shelter from the blistering heat.

The southern European and Balkan regions are desperately waiting for relief from the relentless heatwave that has brought record-breaking temperatures and widespread wildfires. As the Paris Olympics draw near, organizers are closely monitoring the situation, hoping that the city will remain unaffected by the scorching temperatures that have plagued its neighboring regions.