Heatwave in popular holiday hotspot sparks travel alerts and power cut fears

As France, along with much of Europe, faces an intense early summer heatwave, people are being advised to prepare for potential disruptions caused by soaring temperatures and pressure on the energy network. Temperatures have surged past 40C in many areas, creating challenges not only for comfort but also for the country's nuclear power plants, which rely on river water to cool their reactors. On Tuesday, June 24, the village in the north of the Aude region, not too far from the border with Spain, reached a staggering 40.4 °C, becoming the first village in France to reach over 40 °C since the start of 2025.

France's heavy reliance on nuclear energy, which provides about 70% of its electricity, is being tested as rising river temperatures threaten the cooling process essential for safe reactor operation. EDFannounced on June 25 that several French nuclear power stations, especially those cooled by river water from the Rhône and Garonne, may need to lower production from July 1.

EDF will update its forecasts daily, adjusting to evolving river temperature conditions.

These reductions are required to comply with strict environmental regulations that limit the temperature of water discharged back into rivers, protecting aquatic ecosystems.

SNCF has also warned that high temperatures may force slower train speeds to prevent train track damage, potentially causing delays on key routes such as Paris to Avignon and Lyon to Marseille.

According to Enedis, on Monday, June 23, Paris experienced a power outage due to extreme temperatures, which affected around 1,400 customers.

The power cut affected many buildings including the historic Palais de Justice, a courthouse which saw many of its hearings being suspended due to the outage. Météo-France has issued orange-level heat warnings in many departments, especially in southeastern and central areas. Tourists in cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat and use air-conditioned or shaded spaces. Emergency cooling centres have been opened, and hospitals are seeing more cases of heat-related illnesses.