Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Orsay close early as France's third 2026 heatwave puts 22 million people under red alert and shortens a Tour de France stage for the first time
France's third heatwave since May forced the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Musee d'Orsay to close early on July 11, with a quarter of mainland France under the highest heat alert level; Meteo-France put 24 departments in northwestern France under a red heat alert covering more than 22 million people, and cycling's Tour de France shortened a stage for the first time in its history
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Summary
France's third heatwave since May forced the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Musee d'Orsay to close early on July 11. Meteo-France placed 24 departments in northwestern France under a red heat alert covering more than 22 million people, a quarter of mainland France under the highest alert level. Cycling's Tour de France shortened a stage for the first time in the race's history. The French government had already activated its Orsec extreme-heat emergency plan on July 10 for the first time since that plan was created.
Why it matters
Three heatwaves in two months signals a sustained, not episodic, pattern for France this summer. The landmark closures affect one of Europe's largest tourist economies at peak season. The Tour de France adjustment marks a precedent for how sporting events across the continent may have to adapt.
What to watch
- Whether the red alert extends to more departments or eases as the week progresses
- Any public health data on heat-related hospital admissions or deaths
- Whether other European countries face comparable alert levels and introduce similar closures