A severe Europe heatwave has killed at least 18 people in France, with record temperatures, school closures and red alerts across the continent.
Authorities have issued warnings that temperatures could rise even further in the coming days, with France, Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom among the nations facing extreme heat conditions.
The intense weather has disrupted daily life in France, forcing some schools to close or modify class schedules. Meanwhile, Britain is bracing for a four-day heatwave that could challenge the country’s long-standing June temperature record.
France has recorded at least 18 heat-related deaths as unusually high temperatures spread across much of the country. In Bordeaux, temperatures reached 41.9 degrees Celsius, breaking the previous record set in August last year. Poitiers recorded 41.2 degrees Celsius, surpassing a temperature record that had stood since 1947.
Paris could also experience its hottest June day on record, with forecasts suggesting temperatures may reach 38.4 degrees Celsius.
The extreme heat has increased pressure on schools, emergency services and public infrastructure, prompting officials to urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
Among the most tragic incidents, two children aged two and four died in the south-eastern city of Carpentras after being left inside a family vehicle during the intense heat. Despite efforts by emergency responders, both children could not be saved.
In the Bordeaux region, three elderly residents aged between 80 and 95 also died from heat-related complications over the weekend.
Authorities have additionally reported a rise in water-related accidents as people seek relief from the heat. Between Sunday and Monday, 13 drowning deaths were recorded across France.
Officials said the extreme temperatures have driven more people to lakes, rivers and beaches, increasing the risk of accidents. France’s civil protection agency noted that drowning deaths during last year’s heatwave rose by 172 percent compared with normal periods.
