Paris, June 22:
France and several European countries are battling a severe heat wave that has triggered emergency measures, health warnings, and multiple drowning deaths. About one-third of France is under a red heat alert, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C and expected to rise further.
Authorities have placed emergency services and military units on wildfire alert, restricted public alcohol consumption, canceled outdoor sports events, and ordered the closure of 845 schools.
To reduce risks, cooling measures such as misting stations have been installed at major landmarks including the Eiffel Tower. Train services have been disrupted, with extra staff deployed to manage heat-related strain on infrastructure.
Officials are especially concerned about vulnerable groups, including the elderly, homeless people, and those in isolated homes, recalling France’s deadly 2003 heat wave.
The heat wave coincides with France’s Music Day celebrations, prompting alcohol restrictions to ease pressure on emergency services. French media reported the drowning deaths of four children, highlighting rising safety risks during extreme heat.