Record Heatwave Scorches Britain and Europe

Temperature records tumbled across Europe as a brutal early-summer heatwave pushed the mercury to 36.7C in Britain and intensified conditions across France, Germany, and Switzerland.

In Paris, authorities imposed a temporary ban on alcohol consumption and takeaway sales in public places, warning that hospitals had reached ‘saturation point’ dealing with heat-related admissions.

Germany braced for temperatures to hit 41C, while the UK's ambulance service urged the public to drink responsibly and avoid unnecessary risks.

The heat has killed dozens, disrupted train services, closed schools and cultural landmarks, and sent sales of air-conditioning units manufactured by Asian firms soaring.