A prolonged heatwave is affecting the Balkans and Europe, resulting in dried-up lakes, forest fires, and record-high temperatures. The Rusanda salt lake in Serbia has dried up for the first time, with temperatures soaring to around 39 degrees Celsius in countries like Croatia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. The extreme weather conditions have led to dangerous situations in multiple municipalities, with Belgrade recording its hottest July 16. The Adriatic Sea is experiencing record temperatures, while countries like North Macedonia and Albania are combating forest fires. The Western Balkans may need substantial investments to mitigate the impact of climate change.