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Heat Wave Strikes Paris Amid Olympic Events
As Paris hosts the Olympic events, a scorching heat wave grips the city, raising concerns for athletes and spectators alike. Discover how the rising temperatures are impacting the games and what measures are being taken to ensure safety.
Heat Wave Hits Paris During the Olympics
After a rain-soaked opening ceremony last week, Olympic enthusiasts are bracing themselves for an entirely different experience this Tuesday – a relentless heat wave. Most of France is currently under a heat wave alert, with temperatures in Paris and its surrounding regions expected to soar to 35°C (95°F) or higher, according to forecasts from the French national weather agency.
In an effort to beat the sweltering heat, both visitors and locals are seeking solace by hydrating frequently and finding refuge in shaded areas. To help alleviate the discomfort, several misting stations have been installed at La Concorde urban park, which is hosting events like skateboarding and BMX freestyle cycling.
In addition, Paris’ public transport operator has announced that over 2.5 million containers of water will be distributed across more than 70 train stations and stops on its extensive transport network, as well as at various bus stations. This initiative aims to ensure that everyone can stay hydrated during this challenging weather.
The heat is forecasted to be even more intense in the southern regions of France, particularly around the city of Marseille, which is set to host various soccer and sailing events during the Olympics.
France’s national weather agency has remarked on the alarming trend of heat waves becoming “increasingly intense, frequent, early, and prolonged” due to climate change. It highlights that prior to 1989, such extreme temperatures were recorded on average once every five years. However, since the year 2000, these high temperatures have been occurring annually, and the agency predicts that this trend is likely to continue escalating.