Germany and Italy swelter in heatwave as records tumble across Europe

Germany and Italy are enduring sweltering conditions as a heatwave, responsible for numerous deaths in western Europe, spreads eastward with temperatures soaring above 40C (104F).

This extreme heat has led to record-breaking temperatures across the continent. Denmark recorded its highest temperature since measurements began in 1874, while Slovakia experienced its warmest night on record. Britain, France, Switzerland, and Germany have all seen unprecedented heat in June, with the weather system expected to test further records as it moves towards Poland.

Scientists emphasize that human-caused climate change is a primary driver of this heatwave, making the current night-time temperatures 100 times more likely than they were two decades ago. Meteorologists predict the heatwave will peak over the weekend, with some parts of Germany potentially exceeding 42C.

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The heatwave is going to peak at the weekend at well over 40 degrees in some parts of Germany.

Authorities are urging citizens to conserve water, and the extreme heat warnings cover nearly all of Germany. In France, the heatwave has already caused dozens of deaths, disrupted rail travel and power generation, and led to measures such as alcohol bans and school suspensions. Italy has issued red alerts for 18 cities, anticipating temperatures as high as 39C.

The strain on infrastructure is significant, with reports of wildfires increasing in France. Germany's national rail operator, Deutsche Bahn, is offering free cancellations for long-distance travel bookings into early next week due to the strain on tracks, signals, and overhead wires, exacerbated by thunderstorms and wildfires.

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With 36.6C north of Odense, we have the warmest day ever since measurements began in 1874.