Extreme Heat Affects Tourists and Major Landmarks Across Europe
Major tourist attractions across Europe are facing closures due to unprecedented temperatures, including the partial shutdown of the Eiffel Tower and Brussels’ iconic Atomium, in response to heat-related concerns, reports 24brussels.
In light of the extreme heat, event planners are urging attendees to remain hydrated. Notable adaptations include the distribution of ice creams to journalists at last week’s European Council summit in Brussels. A similar initiative was observed in Merksplas prison, where inmates suffer from the effects of outdated infrastructure.
The current climate crisis has raised significant alarms, with Slovenia anticipating a substantial increase in excess deaths due to heat. Portugal recorded its highest June temperature ever at 46.6 degrees Celsius, and Belgium experienced an average temperature in June that was 2.6 degrees above normal. On Thursday, Brussels temperatures soared to 35 degrees Celsius.
Air Conditioning Controversy Amidst Crisis
France has declared several regions under red alert for heat, with over 1,000 schools closed and a heightened risk of wildfires. Prime Minister François Bayrou convened a crisis meeting to address these concerns on Tuesday.
This backdrop has ignited a fierce debate regarding air conditioning across the country. Marine Le Pen of the far-right National Rally advocated for a national plan to increase air conditioning installations, criticizing what she termed the benefits extended to “so-called elites.”
“It’s crazy to tell families to stop working from one day to the next because schools can’t take our kids anymore, while telling them to go to the local movie theater, which is air-conditioned,” she stated on X.
