Cerberus, heat wave named for dog that guards Greek mythology's underworld, locks its jaws on southern Europe

Rome — Southern Europe is grappling with scorching temperatures as a relentless heat wave threatens to break yet more records. A high-pressure system that drifted across the Mediterranean Sea from North Africa has already disrupted life for thousands of people in Spain and Italy. The heat wave — named Cerberus after the three-headed dog that guarded the underworld in Greek mythology — continues to tighten its grip, and is expected to set temperature records in the coming days.

Authorities have issued warnings about significant health risks, primarily in Spain, where temperatures may soon reach a staggering 113 degrees Fahrenheit in some regions. They had already soared as high as 95 degrees as early as 6 a.m. in some areas.