More than 20 towns in France have recorded their highest-ever May temperatures, while the UK set a national record of 33.5 degrees Celsius. This extreme heat event, attributed to a heat dome from Morocco, is expected to last several days, with forecasts predicting temperatures could reach 40 degrees in parts of Spain.

• 01France's national weather agency, Météo France, reported that temperatures could locally reach 36 degrees Celsius.
• 02Thirty-one French départements are under high-temperature alert, marking the first activation of the national heat warning system in May since 2004.
• 03The hot spell in Spain could see temperatures rise to 40 degrees Celsius by the end of the week.
• 04A man died during a running race in Maisons-Alfort due to heat-related issues, highlighting the dangers of the extreme temperatures.
• 05Climate researchers indicate that heatwaves in Europe are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.

The extreme temperatures pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations, and are expected to strain local resources.