An intense heatwave is hitting France this weekend, directly impacting residents' daily lives. From school closures and transport adjustments to health restrictions, here are the key practical measures you need to know.
【Education: Mass Closures】
The Minister of Education announced the closure of 845 primary and secondary schools for Monday, June 23. This measure aims to protect students and teaching staff from dangerous temperatures inside non-air-conditioned buildings.
Additionally, 1,800 other institutions have decided to adjust their schedules to limit exposure to heat during the most critical hours. Parents are advised to check with their school or local municipality for specific local arrangements, particularly regarding childcare needs.
According to Le Parisien, this organization recalls the logistical constraints encountered during previous health crises, where balancing remote work and childcare proved complex for many families Read on Le Parisien.
【Transport: Strict Recommendations from SNCF】
SNCF strongly recommends that "vulnerable" individuals avoid taking trains during this heatwave. This warning follows the cancellation of 71 Intercités trains from Friday through Monday, a precautionary decision taken to avoid air conditioning failures that could trap passengers in unbearable conditions.
Jean Castex, CEO of SNCF, specified that 3,500 agents are monitoring the network day and night to ensure the safety of remaining services. However, the National Federation of Transport User Associations denounces an "uncontrollable situation," pointing out the lack of rolling stock renewal on certain historic lines such as Paris-Limoges-Toulouse, Paris-Clermont, and Bordeaux-Marseille.
For users, it is crucial to check the status of your train before heading to the station and to prioritize short trips or alternatives if possible. According to France Info, affected lines are particularly suffering from this lack of modernization of the railway fleet Read on France Info.
【Weather: Extended Red Alert】
On Sunday, June 21, France experienced another major heatwave. Météo-France placed 39 departments under red alert for heat, while 45 others were under orange alert. From Paris to Bordeaux, including Gard and Clermont-Ferrand, temperatures reached levels dangerous to health.
Despite these conditions, the Fête de la Musique (Music Day) took place, with participants adapting their behavior to the heat. Many preferred to stay home or seek cool places, illustrating the difficulty of balancing social life and health prevention during extreme heat spikes. Le Monde reports that some residents chose to celebrate the event from their apartments, noting that it was sometimes just as hot outside as inside without air conditioning Read on Le Monde.
【Food: Watermelon Takes Center Stage】
Facing increased thirst due to the heat, consumption of water-rich fruits has risen. Watermelon, composed of 92% water, has become a reference food for natural hydration. Although France produces some of its own, it imports a significant quantity, mainly from Spain and Morocco, to meet summer demand.
This trend illustrates how dietary habits quickly adapt to weather conditions. For consumers, prioritizing these local or imported fruits can help maintain good hydration, complementing the regular water intake recommended by health authorities during heat alerts Read on France Info.
【Agriculture: Livestock Adaptation】
The heatwave also affects the agricultural sector, particularly livestock farming. Farmers are forced to adapt to ensure animal welfare and maintain production. Heat stress in cattle begins at 20°C, leading to a drop in milk production of up to one liter per day per cow.
To combat these effects, farmers are investing in cooling equipment such as fans and misters. These measures are becoming essential in the face of climate change, which makes summers increasingly hot and frequent. France Info highlights that this adaptation is vital for the economic survival of farms and compliance with animal welfare standards Read on France Info.
【Urban Refuges: The Banks of the Loire】
In some cities, green spaces and riverbanks serve as natural refuges against the heat. In Tours, the banks of the Loire offer relative mildness appreciated by residents seeking to escape the high temperatures of concrete city centers. These areas remain important gathering points for families and individuals wishing to enjoy natural coolness, while respecting safety guidelines related to the increased use of these public spaces Read on Le Parisien.