Seven die in France as heatwave brings higher temperatures and safety warnings

Paris, France. Seven people have died in France in circumstances related directly or indirectly to the current heatwave, French Junior Energy Minister Maud Bregeon said on Tuesday. Five of the fatalities were people who drowned in lakes, rivers or beaches.

Heatwave conditions

France has been experiencing higher-than-average temperatures since Saturday, while most of Brittany has been placed under an orange-level warning by weather agency Meteo France. The agency said temperatures could reach up to 36 degrees Celsius on Tuesday afternoon.

Safety measures

The government has ordered local authorities to take measures to protect people during sporting events, Bregeon said.

Forecast

Meteo France said on its website that the heatwave is expected to continue on Wednesday and Thursday.