Extreme heat has gripped Europe with record-high temperatures, health alerts and wildfires, from France and Spain to Greece.

H ealth and fire warnings have been issued in countries across southern Europe, with temperatures expected to exceed 40C in some places over the weekend. Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Portugal are among the countries affected - with the Spanish city of Seville forecast to hit 42C.

Southern Europe is facing its first heatwave of the summer. Italy has issued red alerts for high temperatures in seventeen cities. Rome's tourists are seeking relief at public fountains. Marseille, France is offering free swimming pool access.