More than half of France under red alerts as heatwave intensifies (opens original article in a new tab)

More than half of France is under red heat alerts as a severe heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40C intensifies, leading to school closures, travel advisories, and reported deaths.

• 49 of France's 96 regions under red heat alert
• Highs over 40C expected in western France, 43C in Bordeaux
• 3 people died in Gironde region due to heat
• 845 schools closed, 1,800 students allowed early release
• SNCF advises vulnerable people to avoid travel