Heat and health: Europe’s air quality is improving overall, with emissions of key pollutants down year after year, but the continent is still paying a deadly price for extreme weather. France alone confirmed 2,025 heat-related excess deaths in June, while broader studies point to a far higher EU toll. Hungary’s weather whiplash: After sweltering days, Hungary saw its coldest summer night in the Mohos Sinkhole, dropping below freezing. Cooling access and supply: Reports from across Europe show people scrambling for air conditioners during the heatwave, including buyers chasing scarce Chinese-made units. Water stress: A new global map highlights how many countries are using far more freshwater than nature can replenish, raising risks for agriculture and daily life. Local environment and transport: Lake Balaton ferry services are being expanded for peak summer, boosting water connections between towns. Food safety: A salmonella outbreak linked to flavoured noodles has sickened at least 106 people across 14 countries, including Hungary. Policy and industry: Hungary is also moving to regulate pollution risks tied to the EV battery supply chain, with a new pollution watchdog in the spotlight.