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Hot days above 30 degrees, numerous hours of sunshine, low rainfall, and an increased risk of forest fires: Austria is experiencing its first heatwave of the year, characterised by extremely unusual temperatures for June. “It was warmer than average. For example, even now, before the end of the month, there have already been more days with temperatures of at least 30 degrees than in an average June,” explained Alexander Orlik, climatologist at Geosphere Austria, according to APA.
More hot days and an increased risk of forest fires
The dry winter and the current heatwave are also increasing the risk of forest fires in Austria, according to Mortimer Müller from the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU). Currently, the risk of forest fires is considered elevated and moderate in certain areas. The highest risk of forest fires currently exists in Lower Carinthia and parts of Styria. However, lightning strikes in particular can occur throughout the country and are the most common cause of forest fires in Austria in summer.
“If the rainfall on Thursday is not heavy and the heatwave continues as currently forecast, there is a possibility of a high risk of forest fires next week for the first time this year,” Müller explained. According to measurement data from the Ministry of Agriculture and the federal states evaluated by the APA, the groundwater level in Austria is also “low” to “very low” at 149 of 226 current measuring stations.
First time above 35 degrees
At the beginning of the week, the 35-degree mark was reached for the first time this year. On Monday, 175 of the 290 Geosphere weather stations recorded temperatures of at least 30 degrees—this is also referred to as a hot day, which has become much more common in the provincial capitals. In Vienna and Innsbruck, for example, there have already been eleven heatwave days this year, compared to an average of five in Vienna and six in Innsbruck in June. Tropical nights have been few and far between so far – three tropical nights have been recorded in Vienna, compared to an average of four in June. According to scientists, the warmer temperatures are due to man-made climate change.
“Heat package” for people in need
The consequences of the heat are hazardous for people at risk of poverty and homelessness, as they often have fewer options for escaping the hot temperatures in the city. “Extreme heat is very stressful for the human body and can be particularly dangerous for older people and those with chronic illnesses. And because we know that homelessness makes people ill in the long term, it is important to take a close look at this issue,” said Lis Pichler, head of the Gruft homeless shelter. To counteract the heatwave and support people in need, Caritas has developed a “heat package.” This includes 23 “climate oases,” Caritas medical buses with volunteer doctors, street work assignments, and the distribution of drinking water, sun protection, sleeping mats, and summer sleeping bags.
Together with 23 parishes in Vienna and Lower Austria, Caritas is inviting people to cool off with snacks and drinks in climate oases – i.e. parish courtyards – for the sixth time this year. Demand is high, with Caritas recording over 9,000 visits last year. “With the Caritas climate oases, we are making summer retreats accessible and free of charge, while at the same time combating increasing loneliness,” says Caritas director Klaus Schwertner.
Health risks due to prolonged heat
The summer school holidays are about to begin in Vienna, Lower Austria, and Burgenland, which means vacation time for many families. The Samaritan Association is currently warning against the dangers of heat during long car journeys to vacation destinations. It is particularly advisable to set off at night or in the early morning when temperatures are cooler, as the highways are not yet so busy and the asphalt has not yet been heated up so much by the sun. Light clothing, sufficient sleep, breaks, and light meals, such as acidic fruits, are also helpful. Samaritan Association Chief Medical Officer Gruska warned: “No one should take the heat lightly and underestimate the dangers.” Especially in cases of dizziness, nausea, headaches, cramps, or lightheadedness, it is essential to call emergency services without hesitation.
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