Heat warnings were issued for parts of Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany and the U.K. New highs are expected on Wednesday before rain should bring respite to some areas.

Health warnings were issued to tens of millions of Europeans as temperatures climbed well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or more than 40 degrees Celsius.

An extreme and dangerous heat wave responsible for highs of 30-40 C (90s to low 100s F) will only slowly east in part of Europe and persist in other areas as the first week of July progresses.