In pictures: Europe swelters in blistering June heaton June 18, 2022 at 3:30 pm

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Temperatures soar as scientists warn heatwaves are striking earlier in the year due to climate change.

Image shows man cooling offImage source, Getty Images

Parts of western Europe are experiencing more extreme heat this weekend under a wave of hot air that has moved north from Africa.

Temperatures in both Spain and France have broken records, putting pressure on hospitals and energy grids.

French officials forecast some areas will reach 42C (107.6F) on Saturday.

Scientists warn that climate change is making periods of intense heat strike more frequently and earlier in the year, and be more severe.

France is experiencing the country’s earliest recorded heatwave since records began in 1947, its meteorological agency said.

Farmers in Italy warned of the impact of drought on their harvests, with water levels in the River Po down by nearly three-quarters compared with seasonal averages. In Spain, firefighters tackled forest blazes in Catalonia.

Image shows woman cooling in heat

Image source, Getty Images

Image shows woman fanning herself

Image source, Reuters

Image shows mother and baby in park

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Farmer pours water over himself

Image source, Getty Images

Image shows man in cowboy hat

Image source, Getty Images

Image shows woman at Rome water fountain

Image source, Getty Images

Image shows bridge

Image source, Reuters

Image shows two people eating ice cream

Image source, Getty Images

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