Heatwave in Western Europe: Tens of Thousands Without Power, 40 Drownings in France

In France, extreme heat has led to serious infrastructure issues. A transformer failure in the northeast left tens of thousands of households without electricity. In the Lorraine region, asphalt melted due to heat, with road surface temperatures exceeding +60°C in some places. Paris experienced one of its hottest June days and nights on record. Residents, especially those living in attic apartments under traditional zinc roofs, suffer as the heat does not recede even in the evening. Schools have been closed, public transport services are limited, and the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum have shortened their opening hours. Since June 18, 40 people have drowned in France as many sought relief in water bodies.

Other countries are also taking precautions. In the UK, authorities advise against non-essential travel. Poland has issued an orange alert for upcoming heat, with temperatures potentially reaching +40°C. Meteorologists predict the extreme heat will persist at least until the weekend.