In Albania, where temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), the government announced on Monday morning that "any deliberate or accidental fire" could lead to a 15-year prison sentence.
"The rising temperatures in Albania increase the risk of fires that can have disastrous consequences for the environment and endanger lives due to wind spreading the fire," the Ministry of Defence said.
"A single spark can cause immeasurable damage," warned the ministry, which has published an awareness video on social media.
In Serbia, the Hydrometeorological Service (RHMZ) warned on Monday of a severe heatwave expected to last throughout the week, with temperatures reaching 40C and "tropical" nights in urban areas.
According to RHMZ, the heatwave will be accompanied by significant deficits in rainfall, and an orange weather alert indicating dangerous meteorological conditions has been issued for much of the country.
In Kosovo, where the heat is accompanied by sandstorms, health officials urged citizens to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun as much as possible.
"The UV index will be very high," warned Hydrometeorological Institute of Kosovo.
"People with chronic illnesses should avoid direct sunlight, or wear protective eyewear, hats, and light-coloured clothing."
Drivers are also advised to exercise caution.
The average global temperature over the past 12 months (July 2023 - June 2024) is the highest ever recorded, according to the European Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Repeated heatwaves are a hallmark of global warming linked to climate change, emphasize scientists.
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