Paris, August 13 (QNA) - France has placed 80 departments under an orange heat alert, with temperatures expected to reach 38–40°C Thursday and Friday.
Authorities warned of increased wildfire risks, with 50 departments at high risk, while water supplies are under pressure in another 50. More than 40,000 people have experienced water shortages, and around 1,370 waterways are partially or completely dry.
Officials warned that repeated heatwaves could cost France EUR 10–15 billion, while temperatures are expected to gradually ease from the weekend. (QNA)