The blistering heat that has gripped western Europe for weeks is now shifting eastwards, with temperatures expected to soar in countries such as Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and parts of the Balkans. Forecasters predict peak highs of 35-40C in these regions over the coming week, prompting health warnings and concerns about infrastructure and agriculture.
The Met Office has downgraded its heat warnings for the UK, as cooler air and a risk of thunderstorms are expected to move into western Europe. However, eastern European nations are bracing themselves for the worst as temperatures rise above average highs.
Meanwhile, in the western Pacific, Typhoon Mekkhala has intensified significantly. With sustained winds of 75mph (120km/h) and gusts exceeding 100mph over open water, it is expected to track northwards through the Philippine Sea this week, potentially threatening shipping in the region.
The typhoon's proximity may also generate large wave conditions near Taiwan, prompting warnings for ships. As Mekkhala weakens and approaches southern Japan later in the week, it could still bring strong winds and high seas to coastal areas, with heavy rainfall anticipated in some regions.
Across the Atlantic, severe thunderstorms have been battering parts of the US, disrupting sports fixtures and causing disruption. The focus for this extreme weather is expected to shift westwards towards the Great Plains over the coming week, posing a threat of storms stretching from Colorado to Texas by Thursday.