Tourists visiting France should be prepared for a record-breaking heatwave.

Today, temperatures in France reached 35 degrees Celsius and are expected to rise further, peaking on Thursday and Friday of this week. Northern France and major cities like Paris are predicted to be most severely affected.

Currently, temporary fountains have been installed and public swimming pools will also close later as part of a plan to cope with extreme weather conditions.

In August 2003, France experienced a devastating heatwave that killed nearly 15,000 people. At that time, the three highest temperatures recorded occurred within a single month, peaking at 44.1 degrees Celsius on August 12th.

The French meteorological agency, Meteo France, warns that temperatures are unlikely to drop until the end of next week – even at night, with temperatures predicted to remain above 20 degrees Celsius in many places.

In response to this situation, the Parisian authorities had to activate a "level 3" response plan (level 4, the highest level, had never been implemented before).

Part of this plan includes designating approximately 900 "cool spots" with low temperatures, such as parks, air-conditioned public halls, as well as places with temporary fountains and misting systems. The city also opens 13 parks at night for people to cool off.

The cause of this heatwave is believed to be high atmospheric pressure over the Atlantic Ocean, drawing hot air from North Africa and Spain and raising temperatures. Therefore, in addition to France, other countries such as Spain and Germany are also experiencing an uncomfortable heatwave with temperatures ranging from 35-42 degrees Celsius.

If you plan to travel to these countries, prepare everything you need to avoid the heat, such as covering yourself with long-sleeved clothing, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and don't forget to apply sunscreen, use moisturizer, and stay well-hydrated. If possible, seek out public areas and cool down in the way the locals do.

Hai Anh