Weather tracker: Heatwave on course to tip temperatures over 40C in Germany and Poland

Central and northern Europe are forecast to experience a significant temperature increase this weekend as an intense heatwave persists. Germany and Poland are expected to reach or exceed 40C (104F) on both Saturday and Sunday, following similar extreme temperatures in parts of France. The Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg has been declared a heat hazard due to anticipated race-day temperatures in the low 30s Celsius, approximately 10C warmer than typical for the venue. This marks the first race of the season to receive such a designation.

In addition to the heat, severe thunderstorms have occurred across Europe. On the evening of June 22, a powerful tornado, rated F3 on the Fujita scale, struck the Sverdlovsk region of central Russia. The twister caused injuries to 16 people and resulted in the destruction or damage of approximately 100 homes and businesses in the town of Kushva. Emergency services are working to restore power to the affected area. While tornadoes are not common in Russia, forecasters suggest they may become more frequent as the climate changes. Storm warnings were still in effect for the southern part of the country on Friday.