Spain in grip of heatwave with temperatures forecast to hit 44C

Heatwaves becoming more frequent and are beginning earlier, according to Spanish meteorological office

Spain is in the grip of its first heatwave of the year, with temperatures in parts of the west and south expected to reach 44C (111.2F).

Heatwaves - defined as at least three consecutive days of temperatures above the average recorded for July and August from 1971-2000 - are becoming more frequent and are beginning earlier, according Aemet, the Spanish meteorological office. We are facing unusually high temperatures for June," said Ruben del Campo, an Aemet spokesperson.