France, UK and Spain see record temperatures as heatwave grips western Europe

France recorded its hottest day ever of 44.3°C on 23 June.

More than 40 have drowned while trying to cool off, while casualties by heat while in cars are also being reported. A major power outage hit the French town of Ergué-Gabéric, and forest fires are being put out.

Two of Paris's landmarks – the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower – are closing earlier than usual as well.

The UK has issued rare ‘red extreme heat’ alerts, forecasted for 39°C – breaking its June record of 35.6°C.

Spain is similarly recording a daily average temperature of 28.7°C, with a maximum temperature of 42°C possible in parts of the Basque country, according to forecaster Aemet.

Italy has issued 16 red alert spots – mostly in the northern and central regions, including Rome, Florence, Turin and Bologna.

Barbeque bans are in place for certain German cities including Stuttgart.

The heat is expected to spread next to Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, Croatia and Hungary.

The Eiffel Tower is closing earlier than usual; intercity trains are cancelled in France as well. Photo Credit: iStock/RossHelen

How is travel impacted?

Aviation and rail have been hit by delays due to heat, storms and air-traffic limits. These include airports in Amsterdam, Athens, Luxembourg, Málaga, Rome and Zurich.

France has cancelled 71 intercity trains, citing damaged overhead lines and expanded tracks.

Travellers on flights within or into the EU are protected under EU rules, including:

• meals, refreshments and a hotel if delays stretch overnight

• full refunds or alternative flights in the event of rerouting

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and should be attended to immediately. Symptoms include feeling faint, confusion, having a fever or ceasing to perspire. The emergency hotline for EU is 112.

If planning a road trip, ensure the vehicle is inspected, and do not leave young children or older adults alone in the car.

While official travel alerts have not been issued, holidaymakers are advised to abide by local measures and precautions.

Related: Europe cracks down on hidden airline charges