Extreme heat grips Europe as UK hits new June record, France shuts down nuclear reactors and deaths rise across continent – as it happened

<p>Heatwave-related deaths climb in Spain, Italy and France as continent battles another day of extreme temperatures</p><p><strong>Farryn Stock</strong></p><p>Over in the UK, <strong>South East Water has announced a temporary hosepipe ban in Kent amid growing strain from the ongoing heatwave (31C today, 33C tomorrow).</strong></p><p><em>“To safeguard that shared supply and prevent any homes from facing a sudden loss of water, <strong>we sadly need to ask our communities to not use their hosepipes immediately.</strong> We are deeply sorry for the disruption this causes, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone helping us protect Kent’s water.”</em></p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2026/jun/25/europe-heatwave-uk-italy-france-record-temperature-latest-news-updates">Continue reading...</a>