A heatwave in Romania since last week has contributed to the death of 56 people, the Health Ministry said today.
With temperatures reaching 36 degrees, 1,000 people were in hospital with heat-related problems. "Those who died suffered from chronic illness, heart or neurological problems," the ministry said in a statement.
The emergency services said requests for an ambulance were 50 per cent higher than in the same period last year.
Meteorologists said heavy rains later this week were expected to offer some relief.
Players and staff of Shelbourne FC, along with around 200 fans, are travelling to Romania today for their Champions League second-round tie against Steaua Bucharest at Ghencea Stadium tomorrow evening.
