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

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