Already last week, temperatures in Austria were above the 30-degree mark. This week, however, starting Monday, August 12th, the summer weather has reached new peaks, with temperatures up to 35C expected for several days in a row.

Hot air masses from Africa

“We are currently dealing with a very strong high-pressure system over Southern, Central, and Western Europe. Hot air masses are being transported from Africa to Europe,” explains Sabrina Nujic-Marth, a meteorologist from GeoSphere Austria to MeinBezirk.

The result of the hot air masses is significantly increased temperatures across Austria, with Vienna expected to be the most affected region.

High temperatures expected to stay for days

According to the latest forecast, Austria is expected to face afternoon temperatures between 28C and 34-35C from Monday 12th until Friday 16th. 

The morning temperatures are also expected to be rather high and reach up to 23C in many parts of the country.

First, next weekend, the temperatures are expected to drop slightly. On Saturday afternoon, they are expected to reach 32C and on Sunday afternoon, 30C.

Thunderstorms expected

Due to the current weather conditions, occasional thunderstorms are expected to take place in some areas, especially in the northeast and east of Austria.

Thunderstorms are predicted during Tuesday afternoon and Tuesday night. However, Wednesday and Thursday should be more stable.

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Friday is expected to be the sunniest day of the week. On Friday, most of the country will have sunny weather with just a few thin clouds. However, in the mountains, the clouds will build up more, and there might be some local thunderstorms in the afternoon due to the heat.

“Despite this, it will not bring significant relief from the heat. It might provide some ventilation, but temperatures will remain above 20C at night. The heat will continue to hold its grip this week”, says Nujic-Marth to MeinBezirk.

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When heat becomes a health issue

Older people, children and those with long-term health conditions (such as heart problems) can be particularly susceptible to health issues related to hot and humid weather, such as heat exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke because it can be harder for their bodies to stay cool.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to check in on relatives, friends, and neighbours when temperatures are spiralling.

Everyone is encouraged to stay away from the sun during the peak heat hours and keep hydrated. Close windows and shut down blinds on your apartment to prevent the worst of the heat from coming in, and use a fan for some air circulation.

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