Europe heatwave: Why are temperatures on the continent soaring?

France has recorded its all-time hottest temperature amid a European heatwave that has prompted governments to issue health alerts, urging people to keep cool.

Countries across Europe are sweltering under the heat.

Several people have lost their lives amid the soaring temperatures. The heatwave has also caused flash floods and forest fires, grounded planes and buckled train tracks, and led to school closures and warnings over air quality.

Temperatures in France reached a record 45.9C (114.6F) on Friday, as countries elsewhere in the continent continued to swelter under the heat.

In Germany, people are filling hot water bottles, placing them in freezers and then taking them to bed. France has set up temporary water fountains in built-up areas and is allowing public pools to open late into the night.

As the mercury continues to rise, experts tell the BBC what is behind the heatwave.

Read the BBC News story by Mal Siret - “Europe heatwave: Why are temperatures on the continent soaring?”