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Vienna is facing dangerous heat extremes after Greenpeace measured surface temperatures of more than 66 degrees Celsius across several locations during the hottest day of the current heatwave. The environmental group warns that sealed, unshaded urban areas are turning into hazardous hotspots — with some surfaces hot enough to cause burns.
Asphalt and Metal Surfaces Reach Critical Temperatures
According to Greenpeace, the following temperatures were recorded:
- Matzleinsdorfer Platz — 67.2°C
- Vienna Central Station — 66.3°C
- Stephansplatz — 61.6°C
The most alarming finding came from a metal playground slide in the Stadtpark, which reached 66.6°C. According to the Austrian Workers’ Compensation Board (AUVA), metal surfaces can cause burn injuries starting at 65°C.
Greenpeace Calls for Nationwide Greening Effort
Greenpeace argues that the extreme temperatures are a direct result of insufficient greenery and excessive sealed surfaces. The organization is urging the government — particularly Climate Minister Norbert Totschnig — to launch a “renaturation billion” to help cities and municipalities expand green spaces and heat‑protection measures.
Studies cited by Greenpeace show:
- Green areas without trees can reduce surrounding temperatures by around 6°C.
- Green areas with trees and hedges can cool the environment by up to 11°C compared to densely built‑up zones.
Heatwave Already Linked to Hundreds of Deaths
Greenpeace also points to official data from AGES, indicating that nearly 400 people died in June due to acute heat‑related causes during the earlier heatwave.
A Warning for Urban Planning
The findings highlight how vulnerable Vienna’s heavily paved areas are during extreme heat events — and how urgently cities need cooling strategies such as trees, shade structures, water features, and reduced asphalt coverage.
Disclaimer: For political or policy‑related information, please verify details with trusted official sources.
- Source: Vienna.at/picture: pixabay.com
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