France has placed nearly half of the country, including Paris, under its highest-level heatwave warning as temperatures continue to soar towards potentially record-breaking levels.
Authorities issued red heat alerts across 49 regions ahead of Monday, with much of western and central France expected to experience the most intense conditions. Several other areas remain under orange alert as the heatwave spreads across the country.
Temperatures have already climbed sharply, with the south-western city of Bordeaux recording 40°C on Sunday. Forecasters have warned that temperatures could rise even further and approach historic highs in some regions.
The extreme weather has prompted widespread disruption, including the closure of hundreds of schools and changes to public services.
Around 850 schools are expected to remain closed on Monday, while a further 1,500 schools have been instructed to release pupils early to minimise exposure to the dangerous heat.
The French government also introduced restrictions during the annual Fête de la Musique celebrations, one of the country’s largest cultural events that attracts millions of people to streets and public spaces each year.
Authorities announced that alcohol would not be provided at events organised by the state and its agencies in an effort to reduce pressure on emergency services and healthcare facilities.
Officials said the measures were intended to ensure medical personnel could focus on assisting vulnerable individuals affected by the extreme temperatures.
The current heatwave is being driven by a mass of hot air moving northward from the Sahara Desert, trapping unusually warm conditions across large parts of western and central Europe.
Neighbouring countries are also facing severe weather conditions. Italy has issued red heat alerts for several major cities, including Bologna, Florence, Milan and Turin, while Spain has placed multiple regions under red and orange warnings amid forecasts of temperatures reaching 40°C.
French weather agency Météo-France said it remains unclear how long the heatwave will persist, although current estimates suggest that around three-quarters of France’s population could be affected.
To help residents and tourists cope with the extreme temperatures, authorities in Paris have extended the opening hours of parks and gardens, allowing them to remain accessible overnight.
The Fête de la Musique, which has been celebrated annually for more than four decades and coincides with the summer solstice, continued despite the heatwave. Last year alone, the festival attracted approximately two million participants in Paris.
Officials continue to urge the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and take extra precautions as temperatures are expected to peak in the coming days.
