Three nuclear reactors in France have been taken offline, and eight additional reactors are operating at reduced capacity as the country endures a persistent heatwave. This move aims to comply with environmental regulations that limit thermal discharges into rivers used for cooling nuclear plants.
The operator EDF cited rising river temperatures as the main factor restricting the reactors’ ability to cool efficiently, necessitating temporary shutdowns or power reductions to protect aquatic ecosystems. Such measures come amidst heightened scrutiny over the environmental impact of thermal pollution during extreme weather events.
National meteorological agency Meteo-France reported that the heatwave, which initially struck in late June, has intensified, prompting a red alert in 37 administrative departments across the country. Temperatures in these areas are forecast to reach between 37 and 41 degrees Celsius. The scorching conditions have forced several cultural landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Orsay Museum in Paris, to shorten their operating hours for visitor safety.
The government has also issued warnings about public safety, with the Interior Minister announcing an increase in drowning deaths amid the heatwave, underscoring the broader impact of soaring temperatures on health and safety.
Meteo-France indicated that the heatwave is expected to continue until the middle of next week, maintaining pressure on energy facilities relying on river water for cooling and prompting ongoing adjustments in nuclear power output to meet regulatory requirements.