Europe swelters: Record heat, wildfires rage across continent

Europe is experiencing an unprecedented heat wave with temperatures soaring past 40 degrees Celsius in Germany. Wildfires have erupted in France’s Ord region, scorching over 400 hectares and forcing evacuations. Turkey’s Izmir is also battling wildfires, with thick smoke blanketing the region. Countries including Spain, Italy, and Britain are on high alert, with authorities issuing warnings to stay indoors and stay hydrated. In Berlin Zoo, animals are being given cold showers and ice lollies to cope with the heat. A retirement home in Belgium has set up a paddling pool for its elderly residents. Meteorologists warn that this may be just the beginning of a brutal summer across the continent.