PARIS (TVBS News) — Paris was grappling with a sweltering heatwave as temperatures soar to 30 degrees Celsius on Tuesday (July 30), leaving residents and tourists alike searching for ways to stay cool. The city's heatwave plan was activated, providing much-needed relief during this scorching summer, especially with the influx of visitors for the Olympic Games. The heat is particularly challenging for the unprepared, as many in Paris struggle to find relief in a city with limited air conditioning options.
The comprehensive heatwave plan was designed to reduce discomfort for those in the city, particularly the tourists who have traveled for the Olympic Games. This initiative included distributing free hats, fans, and water bottles to passengers on public transportation and in public areas to mitigate the heat's effects. The plan was crucial, as Hesong K. and Shumin H., tourists from Malaysia, noted, 'We knew it was hot today, so we didn't really want to go out. We actually went out around 2 or 3 p.m. Although it was still hot, we slowly went to a cooler place and then continued our journey."
The heatwave posed a challenge for families with children, who must prepare for the high temperatures. Mauricio B., a French tourist, shared his strategy: "We planned our day in Paris in advance because we knew it would be very hot. We prepared the kids' clothing and drinking water for the whole day. The good thing is that in Paris, we have many places where we can refill and get fresh water. It was very appreciable to see that."
Despite the efforts to provide relief, many travelers are surprised to learn that only half of the city's buses and MRT trains are equipped with air conditioning. This is compounded by the fact that only 70 percent of trains offer air conditioning, making travel during the heatwave particularly challenging. For tourists and locals, the limited air-conditioned transportation options mean that careful planning is essential to avoid the heat during peak hours.
One positive aspect is that in France, people can drink freely on public transportation. Additionally, Paris has implemented an interactive map highlighting locations where individuals can fill their water bottles for free. These locations include shops, five-star hotels, and restaurants, offering a much-needed respite for those trying to stay hydrated during the heatwave.
Jean-Briac Loyer, the manager of Lissac Optician, has observed the impact firsthand, stating, "I'd been asked, and I thought it was great to give water to anyone who needed it. We've already had people asking me for water, and probably more will as the heatwave continues." This willingness to help has been essential in keeping people hydrated and safe.
The interactive map of public fountains has been particularly beneficial, especially considering that a bottle of water can cost between 3 and 5 euros at tourist locations. This initiative highlights a crucial aspect of urban planning: making hydration accessible and affordable. Other countries, like Taiwan, could benefit from adopting this initiative in the future to make travel more convenient and comfortable for both locals and tourists.
The heatwave in Paris underscores the need for effective public infrastructure and resources to combat extreme weather conditions. As global temperatures continue to rise, cities worldwide can look to Paris as a model for proactive measures in dealing with heat waves. By providing free water, cooling stations, and accessible information, Paris is taking significant steps to ensure the well-being of its residents and visitors during this intense summer heat.
As the city continues to implement and improve its heatwave plan, residents and tourists alike are finding ways to adapt to the challenging conditions. With the world watching as Paris prepares for the Olympics, these efforts to mitigate the heat demonstrate the city's commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.