France records 40 drowning deaths as Europe swelters under heat wave

ONP Summary

A severe early-season heatwave sweeps across Europe, particularly France and Italy, with record temperatures above 40°C forcing emergency declarations and widespread red alerts. The event marks the second intense heat episode in less than a month and has led to tragic casualties, school closures, cancelled events, and transport disruptions. Climate data indicates such extreme heat events have accelerated significantly in recent decades, with scientists attributing the trend to ongoing climate change.