Britain is basking in 31C heat, temperatures on the continent have reached 45C, and a mountain in Sweden has melted so much it is no longer the country’s highest.
Europe’s heatwave is not over yet, with temperatures across the UK this weekend forecast to remain at an average of about 27C (80.6F), with highs of 31C a possibility in London.
A yellow severe warning for thunderstorms is in place for some parts of England and Scotland until 9pm on Friday.
The Met Office said: Some flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.
There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus. Some short-term loss of power and other services is likely.”
Eight places in the centre, south and east of Portugal have broken their temperature records as Europe swelters. On Thursday, temperatures reached 45.2C near Abrantes, a town in the centre of the country.
Experts have said that the highest temperature ever recorded in continental Europe 48C in Athens, in 1977 could be topped this weekend.
The International Red Cross has called on people to check on older relatives and neighbours.