In Portugal, temperatures are expected to climb to a record-breaking 46C (114.8F) on Friday, leading to the closure of several roads.
The hot weather has also led to several large fires breaking out across the country. One fire in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, in the south-west, is described by officials as "particularly worrying" due to its size and proximity to residential areas.
Portugal is not the only European country affected by extreme weather this week. Temperatures in Spain are expected to reach 43C (109.4F) on Friday, while in France they are expected to reach 41C (105.8F).
Our thermometer showed 43C (109.4F) at around midday as a hot, dry wind whipped ash into our faces. We had followed a team of firefighters as they scrambled to extinguish the flames burning through the drought-parched trees and scrub.
The heat must have been unbearable for them in their heavy suits, lumbering up and down the steep and rocky hillsides. The residents' stoic expressions belied the inner turmoil they felt as they watched.
The past few days have been exceedingly difficult for the residents of the small towns and villages in this region.
The high temperatures have dried out the vegetation, making it easier for fires to spread.
Emergency services are working hard to contain the fires, and evacuation orders have been issued in some areas. A major highway has been closed, and some outdoor events have been relocated to cooler locations.
Portugal's prime minister has cautioned that conditions are expected to deteriorate in the coming days, as temperatures rise to 46C (114.8F) in some areas.
Manuel Santos, who is second in command of the firefighting operation in the region north of Lisbon, stated: "There is a vast area that has already been incinerated.
As the temperature rises, we are increasingly concerned. Our top priority is to minimise the suffering of those affected. Commander Santos has stated that climate change is making the situation worse.
