Austria is preparing for another period of intense heat in the final days of August, with temperatures projected to climb above 30C across much of the country after a brief period of cooler and wetter weather.
Geosphere Austria has issued "yellow" heat warnings, advising the public to take necessary precautions. These warnings will be active on Thursday and Friday, primarily covering the eastern and southern regions of the country. This upcoming spell follows a summer of severe heatwaves since June, which included a record-breaking temperature of 41.2C recorded in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg, Lower Austria, during the first week of August. Experts have noted that such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common in Austria due to the effects of global warming, with prolonged high temperatures offering little relief even during the nighttime hours.
Fortunately, this late-August heat spike is not expected to persist for an extended period. The week begins with mixed weather on Monday and Tuesday. While western regions will experience some rain, the east will enjoy plentiful sunshine. On Monday, Vienna is set to reach a high of 26C, while Salzburg will hit 25C. Innsbruck is forecast to experience thunderstorms alongside a high of 26C, with mountainous areas generally seeing a higher frequency of showers and storms.
On Tuesday, temperatures will remain below 30C nationwide, with slightly cooler conditions in central and western areas as showers persist. By Wednesday, temperatures will begin to climb, bringing sunshine and highs of 27C to 28C across the country.
The peak of the heat spell arrives on Thursday, bringing blazing sunshine and pushing temperatures past the 30C mark in most parts of Austria. Friday will see even higher temperatures in certain areas, with Graz forecast to reach 33C, while thunderstorms could simultaneously develop in the western and northern regions.
The heatwave is expected to break on Saturday, ushering in cooler conditions with highs of 26C in Vienna and 23C in Innsbruck. Heavy rain is also in the forecast for Saturday, prompting recommendations to carry an "Übergangsjacke"—a seasonal transitional jacket—when heading outdoors.
With a new heat spell arriving, it's important to be prepared. Make sure you're stocked up on high SPF sunscreen and wear loose clothing. Health guidelines recommend avoiding direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day and refraining from strenuous physical activities. Make sure to drink water regularly and eat enough. Additionally, people are encouraged to check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and friends. Vulnerable groups who face the highest risk during these extreme heat spells include older individuals, young children, pregnant people, and those living with chronic illnesses.
Here's a look at what's in store this week.
On Wednesday, temperatures will start to creep up, with highs of 27-28C expected around the country as well as sunshine.
