New Delhi, June 25 -- A powerful heatwave sweeping across Western Europe has pushed temperatures to record levels, disrupted daily life, strained power supplies and been linked to hundreds of deaths. Authorities across France, Britain, Germany, Spain and Italy have issued warnings as millions endure extreme temperatures rarely seen this early in the summer.

Several countries have reported unprecedented temperatures.

Paris recorded a June record of 40.9degC, while Britain provisionally registered its hottest June day ever at 36.1degC in Hampshire. France also experienced its hottest day since records began in 1947, with an average nationwide temperature of 30degC.

Germany is forecast to see temperatures between 35degC and 41degC, raisin...