Romania extends heatwave alerts as temperatures soar

The Code Red warning remains in effect mainly in southern regions where daytime highs are expected to reach between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius.

BUCHAREST, July 7 (Xinhua) -- Romania's National Meteorological Administration (ANM) on Monday extended Code Red, Orange, and Yellow heatwave warnings until Wednesday morning, as extreme temperatures continue to grip the country.

The Code Red warning remains in effect mainly in southern regions, including Bucharest and 14 counties, where daytime highs are expected to reach between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius, while nighttime lows will range from 21 to 23 degrees Celsius.

Thermal discomfort will be intense in these areas, with the temperature-humidity index expected to exceed the critical threshold of 80 units.

On Sunday, Romania's National Company of Road Infrastructure Administration announced temporary restrictions for heavy vehicles on Monday, from 12:00 p.m. (0900 GMT) to 8:00 p.m. local time. Vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes are prohibited from using highways and national roads in Code Red counties due to softened asphalt and increased safety risks.

Exceptions apply to emergency services, passenger transport, fuel deliveries, and the transport of perishable goods and food.

In addition, meteorologists have forecast afternoon thunderstorms across much of the country on Monday. The heatwave is expected to ease starting Wednesday. ■