France heatwave triggers spike in drownings, hits tourism sites

Authorities in France said a severe heatwave has led to a spike in drownings as people try to cool off. The heat is also forcing tourist spots and event organizers to curtail operations to protect visitors.

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said 139 people have drowned in rivers or other bodies of water since June 19. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and other facilities are closing earlier.

Many regions reported temperatures topping 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday, with Pissos in the southwest recording 42.3 degrees. French weather authorities are issuing further heatstroke alerts, saying the soaring temperatures will continue at least until the middle of this week.