Rising temperatures, which have seen the mercury hit almost 50C in some parts, could reignite blazes that have ravaged areas of Spain, Greece, Italy and Turkey. Some forecasts suggest it could be among the worst heatwaves on record.

       At least four people died when fires hit the popular southern Turkish areas of Antalya and Mugla.

       Beachfront resorts in Sicily have been razed, right, and 1,000 people had to flee their homes on the island of Sardinia.