Paris heatwave alert: Extreme heat forces early closure of Eiffel Tower, Louvre; what travellers need to know |
In a recent update, Paris’s some of the most iconic attractions, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, have been forced to shorten operating hours due to an intense heatwave sweeping across France. For authorities, the safety of visitors and staff is the priority amid soaring temperatures. It is no news that the continent is experiencing an exceptional weather event. It has disrupted transport, tourism and schools, prompting widespread precautionary measures. Warnings are already in against prolonged exposure to the heat that poses significant health risks. Meanwhile, the early closures have impacted thousands of tourists who had planned their trips to legendary attractions.What officials said
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The operator of the Eiffel Tower announced that the monument would close early because of the high temperatures warning. It stated: “Due to the high temperatures forecast, the Eiffel Tower will be adjusting its operations.” The operator also warned that additional early closures could follow if extreme conditions persist. But it also assured that visitors would get their tickets refunds.Eiffel Tower, most visited tourist attraction in the world
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The Eiffel Tower is among the most visited tourist attractions in the world. It welcomes over seven million visitors every year. Constructed back in 1889, the tall iron structure is particularly exposed to intense sunshine and elevated temperatures during the summer months.Louvre followed the suitSoon after the Eiffel Tower’s announcement, the Louvre Museum confirmed that it too would shorten its opening hours, and would close at 4 PM from Wednesday through Saturday.The management stated, “visiting and working conditions [have become] difficult during the hottest hours of the day and it is at the end of the day that heat builds up most, exacerbated by high visitor numbers.”The Louvre also mentioned that the historic building is “vulnerable and is not sufficiently adapted to climate change.”
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Louvre is another most visited attraction in Paris, home to some of the most incredible works including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. As per reports, the museum attracts about nine million visitors every year.France is suffering from the most intense June heatwaves in recent memory. National weather authorities have also issued highest-level heat alerts across the country. Temperatures in the country are expected to reach above 40 degrees Celsius. This has also forced train cancellations, school closures and adjustments to public events.The heatwave has extended beyond tourism. It has affected daily life across much of Europe. Authorities in France have linked the unusually high temperatures to increased health risks, particularly for kids and the aging population. As of now, those planning a trip to Paris this week, officials recommend checking attraction websites before visiting and be prepared for extreme heat conditions.Sources: France 24, Reuters, Associated Press (AP), Agence France-Presse (AFP), Asharq Al-Awsat, and official statements from the Eiffel Tower operator and the Louvre Museum.
