Three nuclear reactors in France have been shut down, while eight others are running at reduced capacity due to the ongoing heatwave. The state-owned electric utility company EDF stated that the reactors were taken offline to comply with regulations on thermal discharges and environmental protection. High river temperatures are affecting the ability of nuclear plants to cool using river water, leading to output reductions or temporary halts to meet environmental standards.
In response to the heatwave that hit France in late June, scorching temperatures are once again affecting much of the country, as reported by Meteo-France. The national weather agency has issued a red heatwave alert for 37 departments, with temperatures expected to range between 37 to 41 degrees Celsius. This has prompted adjustments in operations and schedules at various landmarks and institutions across the country.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez revealed that 139 people have died from drowning since June 19, marking an 18% increase compared to the same period last year. To cope with the extreme temperatures, several iconic sites in Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Orsay Museum, have modified their opening hours. The current heatwave is forecasted to persist until the middle of the following week, affecting a significant portion of France.
