France Places Forty-Nine Regions Under Red Alert as Heatwave Intensifies, Schools Close

Forty-nine of France's 96 regions are currently under a red heat alert, with an additional dozens under an orange alert. This affects an estimated 63 million people across the country as a severe heatwave intensifies.

Temperatures are expected to surpass 40C (104F) in parts of western France, with Bordeaux potentially reaching 43C, according to Météo-France. This follows a weekend where temperatures hit 40C, prompting an alcohol ban at the national Fête de la Musique.

In response to the extreme conditions, 845 schools have closed for the day, and 1,800 students were permitted to leave classes early. The national railway operator, SNCF, has advised vulnerable individuals to avoid or postpone train travel, with some services in Paris already reduced. Belgium's train operator also cancelled some peak hour services.

Tragically, three individuals, aged between 80 and 95, died in the south-west Gironde region, with intense heat identified as a contributing factor. Health Minister Stéphanie Rist urged citizens to monitor relatives and neighbours during this period.

Météo-France has characterised the heatwave as widespread, long-lasting, and intense, with no significant temperature drop anticipated until the end of the week. Record high temperatures are also forecast across Europe, including Madrid at 39C and Rome at 37C.