Europe's current heatwave is fuelled by a weather pattern known as an Omega block.

Authorities accross Europe have warned of temperatures exceeding 39 and 40 degrees Celsius as a 'heat dome' sets in. Germany also faces the threat of extreme thunderstorms.

The severe heatwave prompted nationwide warnings, alcohol bans, transport disruption and signs of strain on wildlife and at tourist hotspots.

Here are the latest developments on Europe's heatwave.

A powerful weather pattern known as an "omega block" is helping sustain the intense heatwave sweeping across Western Europe, where temperatures have soared above 40°C and dozens…

Europe is warming at more than twice the global average