France braces for a week of punishing heat as red alerts spread (opens original article in a new tab)

France faces a week of extreme heat with temperatures exceeding 40°C, prompting red alerts and measures to protect public health.

• France experiences record-breaking heat wave with temperatures above 40°C
• Red alerts issued for over half of France's regions, with heat conditions expected to persist until at least Friday
• Authorities implement measures to mitigate heat effects, including school closures and public warnings about alcohol consumption and drowning risks