Extreme Heatwave in France: Impact on Newborns, Sports Competitions, and Exams

Paris – 27.06.2026: Since mid-June 2026, France has been in a pronounced heatwave, with temperatures reaching up to 43 degrees Celsius in some areas. These extreme temperatures significantly affect various aspects of life, particularly the health of newborns, the conduct of sporting events, and examination conditions in schools.

Newborns are particularly vulnerable to the effects of heat due to their not yet fully developed temperature regulation. Medical experts warn of an increased risk of dehydration and heatstroke in infants. Parents and caregivers are therefore urged to exercise special caution. It is recommended to protect newborns from direct sunlight, ensure adequate fluid intake, and prefer stays in air-conditioned rooms.

Outdoor sports activities face major challenges amid the heatwave. In Paris, the police advised against outdoor sports events to minimize health risks for participants. A tragic case occurred in the Paris suburb of Ermont, where a 30-year-old man died after cardiac arrest at a sports facility. This underscores the risks of physical exertion in such extreme temperatures.

The education system is also affected: In Poitiers, the oral baccalaureate exams were postponed by one week to allow students to cool down and benefit from better exam conditions. Regular classes were canceled at many schools, and the Ministry of Education recommended holding exams only during the cooler morning hours. These measures aim to prevent the high heat from impairing students’ performance and health.

Besides the direct effects on health and education, the heatwave also strains infrastructure. The French railway announced the cancellation of several long-distance train services, especially during midday, to avoid air conditioning failures. In numerous regions, the highest heat warning levels have been declared, leading to further restrictions in public life.

Experts point out that such extreme heat periods may become more frequent in the future, linked to climate change. Preventive recommendations include regularly drinking water, avoiding physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day, and paying special attention to at-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, and the chronically ill.

The current weather situation highlights the importance of better preparing the population for such extreme weather events and establishing appropriate protective measures to ensure health and safety. In the long term, adjustments in urban areas and infrastructure may be necessary to mitigate the consequences of increasing heatwaves.