France's Record Heat: Nuclear Plants Struggle with Rising Rivers

France is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave, having recorded its hottest day in history with an average temperature of 29.8 degrees Celsius on Tuesday. This surpasses previous records from 2019 and 2003. The extreme heat, characterized by sustained high temperatures day and night, has prompted widespread operational restrictions at several nuclear power plants. State energy company EDF is cutting production at facilities like Golfech, Blayais, Bugey, and Saint-Alban to prevent the discharge of excessively heated cooling water into rivers, though the impact on overall electricity production is deemed negligible.

The heatwave has led to significant disruptions beyond the energy sector. Major tourist attractions, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum in Paris, have announced early closures. Mont Saint Michel has advised visitors to postpone their trips. In response to the severe conditions, numerous schools have closed, and some exams have been postponed. Tragically, the extreme temperatures have also been linked to 40 drownings since Thursday, many involving minors. Weather services have issued red alerts in 58 regions, indicating a serious national impact.