Heat Waves Force Europe to Upgrade Infrastructure

Extreme heat waves are placing growing pressure on Europe's infrastructure, forcing countries to find new ways to protect roads, railways and airports. In Norway, for example, Oslo Airport cools its tarmac with thousands of liters of water during heat waves and is testing asphalt that can better withstand high temperatures.

Rail operators are also deploying drones and AI-powered sensors to detect track damage more quickly.

In Sweden, sections of metro track are being painted white to reflect sunlight and reduce the risk of warping. Experts say many of Europe's transport networks were built when such heat waves were rare and are no longer suited to today's climate.

Investment in modernization is therefore increasing across the continent. Estimates suggest extreme weather events could reduce the eurozone's economic output by as much as 4.7% by 2030.

(Reuters, mja)