Europe Heatwave Forces Paris Shutdown, Schools Close, Wildfires Spread

Western Europe is currently enduring a severe heatwave driven by Saharan winds, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in many regions, including Paris, where the top floors of the Eiffel Tower have been closed to visitors until at least Thursday. France has issued red alerts for multiple departments, including Paris, leading to the closure or partial closure of over 1,300 schools and significant public health advisories. The heatwave has also caused travel disruptions, such as the suspension of France-Italy train services, and environmental concerns including wildfires and drought conditions in several countries. Other European nations affected include Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and Turkey, with varying degrees of heat warnings and restrictions. Scientists warn that such intense heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming, with projections indicating a tenfold increase in heatwave days in France by 2100 and routine summer temperatures exceeding 40°C. Although some relief is expected starting midweek, the ongoing extreme weather highlights the growing challenges posed by climate change across Europe.