Europe is going through an extreme summer, with violent storms in Italy and heatwaves on the Iberian Peninsula, and wildfires affecting Portugal and Spain.

Italy is facing devastating storms with winds of up to 90 km/h causing significant damage, including a tourist struck by lightning and road blockages. In Spain, code orange heatwave brings temperatures above 42°C and vegetation fires have destroyed almost 1700 hectares. Portugal is battling more than 30 fires, evacuating entire villages. In contrast, the UK braces for storm Floris, while Australia faces a severe, snow-covered winter.