Three people have died in France due to health complications caused by an ongoing extreme heatwave, which also prompted nearly 2,700 French schools to close or adjust schedules. Temperatures in Bordeaux are forecasted to surpass 42 degrees Celsius as 49 French regions are placed under a red heat alert.

Across Europe, authorities are grappling with soaring temperatures, with Spain's Basque country facing a red alert and expected highs around 40 degrees Celsius, significantly above historic averages. Nighttime temperatures are also remaining unusually high, providing little relief.

The heatwave's impact extends to wildlife, with shelters in northern Europe overwhelmed by animals suffering from heat-related distress. In Belgium, birds are abandoning nests on rooftops, where temperatures can reach up to 60 degrees Celsius, in order to escape the lethal conditions.