France's SNCF Urges Vulnerable to Avoid Trains Amid Severe Heatwave

France’s state-owned railway operator, SNCF, has urged vulnerable people to avoid train travel as a severe heatwave is set to peak across the country this week.

Jean Castex, head of SNCF, advised reporters: "We recommend the most vulnerable people postpone their trip or at least avoid taking the train during this heatwave."

The former French Prime Minister warned that incidents could not be ruled out due to the extreme temperatures, which are significantly affecting the rail network, potentially deforming tracks and damaging overhead electrical lines.

Weather agency Meteo France confirmed that 49 areas will be placed under a red heatwave warning from Monday noon, an increase of 14 since Sunday.

The heatwave is expected to intensify, with temperatures forecast to reach peaks of 42 degrees Celsius.

Meteo France added that it is "likely that the heatwave will continue (or even worsen in some regions) for much of next week."

The red alert covers much of western and central France, including Paris. Many other regions are under an orange alert.

The heatwave has already forced dozens of trains to be cancelled, shut down outdoor sporting events and closed 845 schools ahead of Monday. Météo-France said it is “uncertain” how long the heatwave will last.

To help Parisians and tourists stay cool during the heat, city officials are keeping parks and gardens open throughout the night in the French capital. The Eiffel Tower and other venues in Paris set up misting stations to cool crowds.

President Emmanuel Macron encouraged citizens to take care of each other amid the heatwave in a post on X, writing in French: “In the face of the heatwave, let us watch over one another. Let us collectively be attentive to our elders, to our children, and to isolated or vulnerable people.”

The French government has also announced a ban on public alcohol consumption in the 35 regions that are placed under its highest red heatwave alert.

After a crisis meeting, the office of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said in a statement: “Prefects will issue decrees banning alcohol consumption in public spaces in the departments under red alert. For all events organised by the state and its agencies, instructions have been given not to offer alcohol.”