The worst heat was felt in southern Europe, while punishing temperatures were forecast to reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit in Paris and remain unusually high in Belgium and the Netherlands.

The heat wave that has blanketed much of Europe is expected to linger over the continent this week, driving up temperatures and offering little reprieve.

In Paris, blistering heat led the Eiffel Tower to close its summit and remind prospective visitors to take precautions. In London, the Wimbledon tennis tournament saw its hottest opening day on record,