Heatwave & Wildfires in the Balkans: Serbia is scrambling to contain fast-moving blazes near Deliblatska Pescara and Kraljevo as temperatures hit around 40°C, with strong winds and drought forcing evacuations and even army support. Central Europe’s Record Heat: Slovakia logged a new all-time high of 42.2°C, while Austria also set records, pushing health warnings and worsening drought conditions. Danube Drought Hits Energy: Low Danube levels are cutting nuclear output—Hungary’s Paks has been throttled and Romania has taken emergency steps—while governments urge power and water saving. Italy on Red Heat Alert: Italy put all 27 monitored major cities on the highest heat warning level, as extreme temperatures disrupt transport and energy and fuel wildfire risk. Food & Farming Pressure: Expana cut its EU maize and soft wheat forecasts after hot, dry weather damaged yields across France and parts of Central Europe, including Poland and Hungary. Transport Link Gets Back on Track: Hungary and Serbia say the upgraded Budapest–Belgrade passenger rail could start carrying passengers this autumn after safety checks. Public Health Watch: West Nile cases are rising in Greece, with older people most at risk as the season accelerates. Energy Prices Ahead: Analysts warn winter electricity costs could jump as heat and low river flows strain power supply.