Forecasters were warning of dangerous temperatures in Central Europe on Thursday, as the extreme heat that has stifled the western part of the continent began to move east.
The heat wave that began over a week ago has brought record temperatures and unbearable conditions for many people in Europe, particularly those working outdoors. Four people have died in Spain, which along with France bore the brunt of the severe conditions at the start of the week.
While temperatures in Spain had eased slightly on Thursday, the mercury was rising in countries in Central and Eastern Europe — prompting health ministries and weather agencies to issue alerts. Wildfires continued to remain a threat in Greece, as hot and dry conditions persisted.
Here’s what you need to know:
Which countries are affected?
Spain: The authorities in Spain have reported four deaths in recent days — two people whose deaths were linked to the heat, and two others who died in wildfires. Firefighters were still battling a number of blazes on Thursday, including one that the authorities in Catalonia described as a “mega-fire,” which was producing an eight-mile-high column of smoke.