Heat wave in France to push temperatures to 40 degrees
About 40 departments are under yellow alert, with Paris forecast at 38 degrees and health risks rising.
France is bracing for a heat wave that is expected to push temperatures to 40 degrees Celsius by the weekend. BFM TV reported that temperatures in many areas are moving in the 30-36 degree range, while remote areas could reach 37 degrees. In Paris, temperatures on Friday are forecast to reach 38 degrees, close to the local June record. Meteo France has placed about 40 departments, from Hautes-Pyrenees to the Paris area and from Charente-Maritime to Savoie, under yellow or amber alert. Authorities have asked residents to limit outdoor activity, drink plenty of water and avoid the sun during the hottest hours. Reuters also reported that a 30-year-old man died on Thursday after exercising on an athletics track east of Paris; his death was believed to be linked to the extreme heat.