Eiffel Tower Temporarily Closed: Why Are People Dying Across Europe?

Due to the extreme heat sweeping across European countries, tragic incidents have been recorded in France. In recent days, 40 people have died while swimming to cool off. This was announced by the French Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu.

The intense heatwave is affecting France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. According to meteorologists, "red" alerts have been issued in many regions due to temperatures reaching record levels. In southwestern France, the temperature rose to 44.3 degrees Celsius, marking the hottest day in the country's history.

"Drowning is a great tragedy. I urge citizens to follow safety rules and not swim in unauthorized areas," said Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu.

 Previously, Sports Minister Marina Ferrari also warned residents against swimming in dangerous water bodies to escape the heat.

Due to the heat, there have been disruptions in rail traffic, and schools are closing early. France’s main symbol, the Eiffel Tower, has also been temporarily closed to visitors.

In Madrid, "climate shelters" have been opened for the homeless and socially vulnerable groups. In Belgium, school exams have been moved to cooler locations.

Experts attribute this prolonged weather pattern to the "Omega" blocking high-pressure system. The World Meteorological Organization states that Europe is warming at twice the global average rate.

Currently, the demand for fans and air conditioners has increased significantly in many European cities. Meanwhile, tourists are choosing to travel to cooler northern countries to escape the heat, a trend known as "coolcation."

Meteorologists predict that temperatures will gradually begin to drop on Friday due to air currents arriving from the Atlantic Ocean.