Heatwave hits Europe: power cuts in Turin, thousands without water in Kent

A powerful heatwave is causing serious disruptions across Europe. In Kent, England, thousands of residents have been left without drinking water due to surging demand for cool tap water, while in Italy, five cities have been placed under heat warnings as Turin suffers repeated power outages.

A scorching heatwave is sweeping across Europe, triggering infrastructure failures in both the United Kingdom and Italy. In Kent county in southeastern England, the extreme heat has driven demand for cold tap water so high that several thousand residents have been left entirely without water supply.

Meanwhile in Italy, authorities have issued official heat warnings for five cities as temperatures continue to climb. The northern city of Turin has been particularly hard hit, experiencing repeated electricity outages as the power grid struggles to cope with the surge in demand for air conditioning and cooling systems.

Europe's summer heatwaves have grown increasingly severe and frequent in recent years, placing growing pressure on aging utilities infrastructure. Authorities in both countries are urging residents to conserve water and electricity wherever possible, while vulnerable populations — including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions — are being advised to stay indoors and keep hydrated.