A high-pressure “Omega block” has trapped hot air over the region, driving temperatures above 40°C in France and prompting severe heat alerts in several countries. Poland’s Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński has convened an emergency meeting as forecasters warn some parts of the country could reach 40–43°C, threatening the national record of 40.2°C set in 1921. The capital, Warsaw, has opened free chilled water stations ahead of the forecast heatwave that is expected to reach its peak over the weekend. France has reduced visiting hours at key tourist attractions and at least 48 people have drowned in recent days, many after swimming in unsafe waters. The extreme heat is affecting schools, wildlife rescues and power systems. In Britain, the UK Health Security Agency has issued a red heat health alert, while rail operators advised against nonessential journeys.