Southern Romania experiences intense heatwave, anticipated temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius
Romania is currently experiencing an extended heatwave, with the warning remaining in effect until Wednesday morning. The heatwave is expected to persist, particularly in southern, eastern, and central regions of the country[1][4].
For Monday afternoon, meteorologists forecast a Code Red heat alert with maximum temperatures soaring between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius in southern counties including Mehedinți, Gorj, Dolj, Olt, Vâlcea, Argeș, Teleorman, Giurgiu, Dâmbovița, Prahova, Buzău, Brăila, Ialomița, Călărași, Ilfov, and Bucharest[1][2]. Intense thermal discomfort is also expected, with the temperature-humidity index (THI) exceeding 80 units, indicating very high heat stress[2].
Additionally, a Red Code warning for severe storms has been issued for northwestern counties such as Timiș, Arad, Bihor, and Satu Mare from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with powerful winds up to 100 km/h expected[1].
For Wednesday morning, the heatwave warning continues, with the continuation of extreme temperatures across much of the country. Nighttime temperatures will remain high, typically between 21 and 24 degrees Celsius, causing tropical nights and sustained heat stress[1][4].
The National Meteorological Administration (ANM) is closely monitoring the situation and advises caution due to the prolonged extreme heat and potential severe weather on Monday afternoon[1][2][4]. A broader Code Yellow warning covers Crisana, Maramures, much of Transylvania and Moldova, and northern continental Dobrogea.
In these regions, temperatures are expected to reach between 33 and 37 degrees Celsius. Nighttime lows in these regions will generally range from 18 to 20 degrees. The temperature-humidity index (ITU) is expected to exceed the critical threshold of 80 units. Storms are also forecasted across much of the country on Monday afternoon.
The Code Red heat alert is in effect from July 7 at 10:00 AM to July 8 at 10:00 AM. The National Railway Company has announced that it will order trains to reduce their speed in areas where rail temperatures reach or exceed 50 degrees Celsius due to the heatwave.
The heat will still pose health risks, particularly during prolonged exposure, even in areas under the Code Yellow warning. The Code Red alert indicates an extreme risk to health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses.
The ANM encourages the public to take precautions and stay hydrated during the heatwave. The heatwave is expected to generate a high level of thermal discomfort, and the public is advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and to seek cool, air-conditioned environments when possible.
[1] National Meteorological Administration (ANM) website: [2] Romanian Television (TVR) website: [3] Romanian News Agency (Agerpres) website: [4] Romanian Institute of Public Health (IASR) website:
The elevated temperatures, under the Code Red heat alert, are anticipated to rise between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius in various southern and central regions, including environmental-science research hubs like Mehedinți and Bucharest. Meanwhile, meteorologists predict the THI (temperature-humidity index) to surpass 80 units, signifying a high level of heat stress in these regions.
