27/06/2019 10:30
European countries set new June heat records amid heatwave
Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic hit their highest ever recorded June temperatures on Wednesday - with more records anticipated to fall as the heat continues to rise in the coming days.
Some nations, including France and Switzerland, are expected to see levels above 40C (104F) on Thursday.
Meteorologists say exceptionally hot air blown in from northern Africa is to blame for the European heatwave.
French officials have issued stark warnings about the risk to life.
On Wednesday, their Minister for Solidarity and Health, Agnès Buzyn, defended the government against claims they are being alarmist about the conditions.