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People cool off in a water spray at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Sunday, June 21, 2026

Video. Canal Saint-Martin becomes cooling spot as heatwave grips Paris

Updated:

Paris faces extreme heat as crowds use fountains and the Canal Saint-Martin to cool off, while authorities impose alerts and safety measures.

Paris faces a severe heatwave as temperatures climb towards 40C, placing much of France under red alert.

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Across the city, residents and tourists gather around public fountains, refill water bottles and cool off in shallow pools. Others head to the Canal Saint-Martin, diving from bridges or swimming in the water.

The scenes show how people are coping with extreme heat in a country where air conditioning remains relatively uncommon.

Authorities have raised wildfire readiness, restricted alcohol consumption in some public spaces and cancelled outdoor events to reduce risks.

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