BRUSSELS — Several countries across southern Europe have issued extreme weather warnings due to potentially dangerous heat.

Greece’s Culture Ministry has ordered the iconic Acropolis to close for several hours in the middle of the day.

Meteorologists said hot air coming from Africa will continue baking the nation until Sunday.

Temperatures on Thursday are expected to reach 43 degrees Celsius.

In Croatia, authorities have reported the highest-ever temperatures in the Adriatic Sea.

In Dubrovnik, thousands of tourists looked for shade to hide from the blazing sun while exploring the city, while people at nearby beach resorts sheltered under umbrellas.

In nearby Romania, one person has died and another is in a very serious condition after a period of extreme heat.

An orange heatwave alert remains for the country.

Across Europe, doctors say it's crucial to understand the symptoms of hyperthermia and dehydration and to act as quickly as possible to avoid serious health problems. — Euronews