A new heatwave sweeping across Croatia has raised serious concerns over public health, with temperatures reaching above 40 degrees Celsius and leading to increased hospitalizations due to cardiovascular issues. The Croatian Health Ministry has issued warnings, highlighting the dangers of extreme heat and advising citizens to take precautions to avoid dehydration and other life-threatening conditions. In the city of Rijeka, a red alert has already been activated for tomorrow, signaling the severity of the situation. The heatwave has intensified over recent days, with temperatures in Zagreb surpassing 39 degrees Celsius, while parts of northern Austria recorded even higher readings, including a record-breaking 40.1 degrees in Bad Deutsch-Altenburg. These extreme conditions have led to a spike in emergency room visits, particularly among older adults and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. Medical professionals warn that high temperatures can cause blood vessels to dilate, increase heart rate, and lead to severe dehydration, which in turn raises the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other complications. Dr. Edvard Galić, head of the Internal Medicine Department at the Sveti Duh Hospital, emphasized that during periods of intense heat, hospitals see a noticeable rise in patients presenting symptoms related to heat stress, including dehydration, dizziness, fainting, and sudden increases in blood pressure. He explained that insufficient fluid intake leads to thicker blood, increasing the likelihood of clot formation and subsequent cardiac or cerebrovascular events. According to his observations, the number of patients admitted for heart rhythm disorders, heart attacks, and strokes has risen significantly during the summer months compared to other times of the year. In addition to these risks, experts caution against common misconceptions regarding cooling methods. While many seek relief through cold drinks or energy beverages, Dr. Galić warns that alcohol and caffeinated drinks can exacerbate dehydration and place additional strain on the body. He noted that alcohol acts as a diuretic, causing further loss of fluids and potentially lowering blood pressure, whereas energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which can accelerate heart rate and worsen the effects of heat exposure. The Croatian Health Ministry has recommended maintaining indoor temperatures between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, using air conditioning appropriately and avoiding abrupt shifts between hot and cool environments. Gradual acclimatization is considered essential to prevent additional stress on the cardiovascular system. For vulnerable groups, including elderly individuals and those with pre-existing medical conditions, regular monitoring of blood pressure and hydration levels is strongly advised. In Austria, the situation has reached alarming proportions, with health authorities reporting a record number of deaths linked to extreme heat. As of June alone, 395 fatalities were attributed to heat-related causes, marking a sharp increase from previous years. This figure exceeds the previously recorded peak of 335 deaths in June 2019 and reflects a growing trend associated with climate change. Austrian officials have called for stricter measures to protect at-risk populations, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated and seeking medical attention promptly when symptoms arise. Public health campaigns are being launched in both countries to educate residents on how to safely navigate the current heatwave. Recommendations include wearing light, breathable clothing, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and ensuring adequate fluid intake throughout the day. Authorities also urge individuals to remain vigilant and consult healthcare providers if they experience any unusual symptoms, especially those with known health vulnerabilities.
6 reports
Net.hrIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 753 days agoThe article warns about the dangers of extreme heatwaves, specifically temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, and advises people to take precautions such as avoiding outdoor activities, wearing light clothing, staying hydrated, and adjusting indoor temperatures. It highlights the physical effects of high temperatures on the body, including increased heart rate, dehydration, and potential health risks. The Croatian Hydrometeorological Service (DHMZ) has issued warnings about dangerous heatwaves, with a red alert already activated for Rijeka starting the next day.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the health risks associated with extreme heat and provides practical advice without taking a political stance. While the topic relates to public policy and environmental conditions, the framing remains neutral, focusing on scientific warnings ratherthan
Why factuality (80): The article accurately describes the health risks associated with high temperatures and mentions the yellow warning issued by DHMZ. However, it omits specific temperature measurements like the 39.7°C recorded in Knin. The content is largely aligned with the primary source but lacks some specific det
Why objectivity (75): The article contains more direct advice and cautionary language regarding behavior during extreme heat, which introduces a slight bias towards public safety messaging. It is informative but slightly less neutral in tone compared to others.
N1 HrvatskaIndependentCenter3 hr. agoThe article discusses the health risks associated with heatwaves in Croatia, emphasizing the increased likelihood of cardiovascular and circulatory issues during extreme summer temperatures. Medical professionals, including Prof. Dr. Sc. Edvard Galić, warn that dehydration, irregular heartbeats, strokes, and heart attacks become more common during these periods. The article highlights the importance of maintaining proper hydration, monitoring blood pressure, and avoiding self-medication adjustments. It also cautions against consuming alcohol and energy drinks, which can exacerbate health problems. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses are particularly at risk.
Bias read (Center): The article presents medical advice and expert opinions without overt ideological framing. While it addresses public health concerns related to climate conditions, it does not take a partisan stance or promote specific political agendas. The information is based on clinical observations and expert共识
Večernji listIndependentProgressive3 hr. agoThe article reports on a record number of heat-related deaths in Austria during June 2025, with 395 fatalities recorded by the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES). This marks the highest number since 2017. The article highlights that extreme heat has become increasingly dangerous, particularly for elderly individuals and those with chronic illnesses. Minister of Health Corinna Schumann emphasized the severity of the situation, calling the figures shocking and noting the growing impact of climate change on public health. She announced plans to incorporate these findings into national heat protection strategies. The data is based on scientific models developed by AGES, which uses excess mortality statistics to estimate heat-related deaths, as direct causes are rarely documented in official records.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue of heat-related deaths as a serious public health crisis linked to climate change, emphasizing the urgency of government action. It presents the data in a manner that underscores the severity of the problem and criticizes the lack of direct documentation of heat as a fat
tportalIndependentCenter3 hr. agoDr. Edvard Galić, a medical expert and head of the Sveti Duh Hospital, warned during a live broadcast on HTV's main evening news that extreme heat increases health risks, particularly related to dehydration, heart rhythm disturbances, strokes, and heart attacks. He explained that insufficient fluid intake thickens the blood, increasing the risk of thrombosis and cardiovascular issues. Older adults and those with chronic conditions like heart disease or diabetes are especially vulnerable. Galić emphasized the importance of monitoring blood pressure and urine color, avoiding self-adjustment of medication, and cautioned against consuming cold beer and energy drinks during heatwaves due to their dehydrating effects.
Bias read (Center): The article discusses general health advice related to heatwaves and does not take a stance on any political issue, policy, or controversy. It focuses solely on medical warnings and recommendations from a healthcare professional.
HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicCenter5 hr. agoA heatwave continues to affect Croatia, with high temperatures persisting across the country. The situation has raised concerns among residents and authorities regarding health risks and potential impacts on infrastructure. Meteorological services have been monitoring the conditions closely, issuing updates and warnings where necessary. The prolonged exposure to extreme heat has prompted discussions about preparedness and mitigation strategies.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a natural event (heatwave) affecting the country, which is a common environmental issue. There is no explicit political framing, bias, or emphasis on any particular political stance or policy. It focuses on the ongoing situation without taking a side or promoting specific idee
HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicCenter5 hr. ago Cold beer is not an ally in the heat; Prof. Galić also warned against energy drinksProf. dr. sc. Edvard Galić, ravnatelj KB-a Sveti Duh i predstojnik Klinike za unutarnje bolesti, upozorio je u intervjuu za Dnevnik HTV-a da toplinski valovi u Hrvatskoj dovode do povećanog broja hospitalizacija zbog poremećaja srčanog ritma, srčanog i moždanog udara. Navedeno je da su najčešći simptomi u hitnim službama dehidracija, vrtoglavica, nesvjestica i povišen krvni tlak, a najveći rizik poseduju stariji i kronični bolesnici. Galić upozorio je da nedostatak tekućine povećava rizik od tromboza, infarkta i moždanog udara. Također je naglašen potreban nadzor krvnog tlaka i tjelesne težine kod ovih grupa, kao i opasnost samoinicijativnog mijenjanja terapije. Upozorenje je dato i prema konzumiranju hladnog piveta i energetskih pića, koja mogu dodatno iscrpitati organizam.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual medical advice and health warnings based on expert opinion without taking a political stance. It focuses on health risks associated with heatwaves and provides general recommendations without advocating for any specific political ideology or agenda.
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