Western Europe Heatwave: France Issues Orange Alert for 41 Million, Paris Nears 40C
Western Europe faces an intense heatwave, with France issuing an orange alert for 41 million people as Paris anticipates temperatures above 40C. This is the second heatwave this year, with scientists linking the increased frequency and intensity of such events to climate change.
Western Europe is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures expected to rise further and break records. France is particularly affected, with over half its population, approximately 41 million residents, under an orange heat alert.
Forecasters predict temperatures in the Paris region could exceed 40C for the first time in June. President Emmanuel Macron urged vigilance, especially for the vulnerable, while Health Minister Stephanie Rist cautioned young people about alcohol and physical activity during the upcoming La Fete de la Musique festival.
France recently recorded its hottest spring since 1900. Other countries, including Britain, Germany, Switzerland, and Spain, have also raised alert levels. The UK Met Office indicates a 40% chance of breaking its June temperature record from 1976. Scientists attribute these extreme weather events to human-driven climate change.