Key facts
Temperature: Heat wave caused by a confluence of hot air masses from the Sahara and the eastern United States, leading to temperatures of up to 43°C, with some reaching 46.6°C in Portugal (Mora) and 46°C in El Granado, Spain
Extent: More than ⅔ of Portugal's territory was declared a high-alert zone, with similar warnings in place in Spain, Italy, France, Greece and Turkey.
Heat wave in Britain - temperatures in some areas reached tropical levels (up to 34°C), even higher than in Barbados
Precautions
Warnings and restrictions: Italy, France, Portugal and Turkey issued "red" and "orange" warnings, with many places banning outdoor work during the hottest hours.
Cooling spots: Marseille's city hall opened swimming pools for free use, Sicily has banned outdoor work during the day.

School closures: Around 200 schools in France have been closed due to high temperatures.