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France Heatwave Closes Schools, Cuts Trains, Validates Climate Forecasts

6/24/2026

Summary

France Battles Heatwave

France has endured a heatwave since June 17, with temperatures between 36 °C and 43 °C.
The heat forced closure of over 800 schools and a 10 percent cut to Paris-region train services.
Météo France put 54 of 96 mainland departments on red alert, covering 90 percent of the population.
Researcher François Gemenne said the event confirms climate-change forecasts and urged renovation of public buildings, expanded air-conditioning, and cooling centres for vulnerable residents.

Summary

France Heatwave

An Omega block high-pressure ridge trapped hot air over Europe, driving a heatwave that pushed French temperatures above 40 °C.
French households responded by sharply increasing sales of fans and air-conditioners.
Madrid opened climate shelters to protect homeless people from the extreme heat.
Belgium shifted final-exam venues because schools could not operate under the red heat alert.
Tourists booked cooler northern destinations such as Sweden, avoiding typical summer spots like Croatia.

Summary

Europe Heatwave

France halted the Golfech nuclear plant Monday after the River Garonne reached the 28 °C cooling limit.
The Eiffel Tower closed Tuesday at 16:00 (14:00 GMT), ending entry at 12:15 to protect the structure.
Police opened a manslaughter probe after two children, 2 and 4, died locked in a car in Carpentras.
Switzerland’s St Gallen canton limited water withdrawals while Spanish municipalities cancelled bonfires as temperatures lowered water levels and raised wildfire risk.

Summary

France Warns

French officials warned people to avoid unsupervised lakes and rivers after 13 weekend drownings.
Madrid will audit firms to enforce heat-alert labor rules that permit reduced hours, shift changes, or up to four days paid leave when workers cannot travel.
Aemet’s red alert cancelled sports and cultural events in San Sebastián.
Forecasts show Almería night temperatures staying above 25 °C, with some spots not dropping below 30 °C.

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France Battles Heatwave

France has endured a heatwave since June 17, with temperatures between 36 °C and 43 °C.
The heat forced closure of over 800 schools and a 10 percent cut to Paris-region train services.
Météo France put 54 of 96 mainland departments on red alert, covering 90 percent of the population.
Researcher François Gemenne said the event confirms climate-change forecasts and urged renovation of public buildings, expanded air-conditioning, and cooling centres for vulnerable residents.

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