Europe's sweltering heatwave has shattered records across the continent, with temperatures soaring in Germany and Italy before spreading eastwards. As the extreme weather system intensifies, UK residents can expect to feel its impact soon. Scientists have linked the unprecedented heat to human-made climate change.
Denmark recorded its highest temperature on record on Saturday, reaching a scorching 36.6C north of Odense - the hottest ever reading since records began in 1874, according to the Danish Meteorological Institute. Slovakia also confirmed its warmest Friday night on record, with temperatures remaining above 26.3C.
In Germany, temperatures have pushed local highs to 42C and are expected to remain extreme due to a national record of 41.3C reported near Saarbrücken - just a stone's throw from the French border. This has prompted national meteorological services to issue extreme heat warnings for nearly the entire country.
The heatwave's impact is being felt across Europe, with widespread disruption and strain on public services. France, where dozens of fatalities have been reported, is battling an increase in wildfires compared to last year, while infrastructure is buckling under the heat - roads are buckling and train tracks swelling, leading to traffic reductions.
Germany's national rail operator, Deutsche Bahn, has offered free cancellations for long-distance travel due to infrastructure strain from sun exposure, thunderstorms, and wildfire risks. A section of the A7 autobahn near Hamburg was closed after asphalt split due to the heat.
The Italian health ministry has issued a red alert for 18 major cities, including Milan, Rome, and Venice, for Saturday and Sunday, with temperatures forecast to reach 39C in some areas. The extreme heat has forced public events to be delayed or cancelled - the start of the Milan Pride march was postponed and Frankfurt's Ironman European Championship triathlon shortened its courses.
Meteorologists predict that the intense heat will begin subsiding over the weekend, with heavy thunderstorms anticipated on Sunday. However, the French prime minister's office warned that pressure on healthcare systems and hospitalisations are likely to remain elevated for several days - temperatures have pushed 18C above seasonal averages in some regions.
Source: The Guardian, Danish Meteorological Institute, Donnerwetter, Deutsche Bahn