Portugal and parts of southern Europe are experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40C, attributed to a plume of warm air from the Sahara. The Portuguese town of Amareleja, known for its hot summers, recorded 44.5C, while the country's highest temperature was 46.4C in Alvega. Over 700 firefighters are battling a forest fire in the Algarve, and the heat is affecting local businesses and health, with increased hospital visits for falls and psychological assistance. Spain has also been hit by the heatwave, with three deaths reported and red alerts issued in several regions. The Civil Protection Agency is warning of fire risks and advising caution.

Detectives investigating Madeleine McCann's disappearance are set to question several suspects identified by Met police officers, mostly Portuguese, in the near future. The questioning will not occur during the current investigation phase, which ends next Friday. The suspects, all still residing in Portugal, will be questioned as formal suspects ('arguidos') at one of the PJ police stations in the Algarve. British detectives can observe but not intervene during the questioning.

Scotland Yard detectives are on their fifth day of searching a 15-acre scrubland area in Praia da Luz, close to where Madeleine McCann was last seen seven years ago. The McCanns, who have not traveled to Portugal, released a statement urging against speculation and expressing encouragement by the progress. The search included inspecting sewer pipes and resulted in the collection of non-organic material. Madeleine McCann disappeared in May 2007 while her parents dined at a nearby restaurant.

Detectives from Scotland Yard have employed ground-penetrating radar in Praia da Luz, Portugal, near the location where Madeleine McCann was last seen in 2007. The search, which began on Monday, involved digging and soil sample collection. DCI Andy Redwood is overseeing the operation, which includes a 24-hour police guard. Madeleine's parents are updated on significant developments. The search may expand but will conclude on Friday without a significant discovery.

Detectives investigating Madeleine McCann's disappearance have applied to extend their search into next week, as forensic experts join the meticulous search of dense scrubland near where she was last seen in 2007. The search, initially expected to end on Friday, has been slow due to the need to clear sites with petrol strimmers and chainsaws. Key areas of focus include a hole concealed by corrugated iron and a patch of land where ground-penetrating radar was used. Madeleine's parents are being kept informed of the developments.