An intense early summer heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed at least eight lives and forced health authorities to issue widespread alerts. The soaring temperatures have also disrupted energy operations, prompting nuclear power plants in Switzerland and France to reduce output or shut down completely.

Spain and France were hit hardest earlier in the week, with Spain reporting four deaths. While temperatures have slightly eased there, the heat is intensifying in Central and Eastern Europe, raising health concerns.

France has recorded its hottest June since 2003, with two heat-related deaths and 300 hospitalisations reported. Wildfires remain a threat in Greece amid ongoing hot, dry conditions. In Italy, two elderly men died from the heat on Sardinian beaches. Germany is bracing for temperatures to hit 40°C in some regions.