France Shuts Down Three Nuclear Reactors as Heatwave Disrupts Power Generation

July 13, 2026

Paris: France has shut down three nuclear reactors and reduced power generation at eight others as an intense heatwave continues to grip the country, raising river temperatures and affecting the cooling systems used by nuclear power plants.

According to France’s state-owned electricity company EDF, the reactors were taken offline to comply with environmental regulations governing thermal discharges into rivers and to minimise the ecological impact of high water temperatures.

Heatwave Impacts Nuclear Power Operations

French nuclear plants rely on river water to cool their reactors. During periods of extreme heat, rising river temperatures reduce the efficiency of cooling systems and limit the amount of heated water that can be safely discharged back into rivers.

As a result, operators are required to reduce electricity generation or temporarily shut down reactors to meet environmental safety standards.

The latest shutdowns come as France experiences another spell of exceptionally high temperatures, only weeks after a severe heatwave swept across the country in late June.

Red Alert Issued in 37 Departments

France’s national weather agency Météo-France has placed 37 departments under its highest-level red heatwave alert, warning that temperatures in the affected regions could range between 37°C and 41°C.

Around one-quarter of the country remains under the highest heat alert, with the heatwave expected to continue until the middle of next week.

In Paris, temperatures have remained unusually high, prompting authorities to advise residents and tourists to limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.

Heatwave Forces Tourist Attractions to Cut Hours

The prolonged heat has also disrupted tourism and public life across France.

The Eiffel Tower temporarily reduced its operating hours over the weekend, closing at 4 p.m. instead of its usual late-night schedule.

The Louvre Museum has also shortened its opening hours through July 13, while the Musée d’Orsay will close early through July 15 to protect visitors and staff from extreme temperatures.

Drowning Deaths Rise During Extreme Heat

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said 139 people have died from drowning since June 19, marking an 18 per cent increase compared with the same period last year.

Authorities have urged people to remain cautious while seeking relief from the heat near rivers, lakes and beaches.

Heatwave Highlights Climate and Energy Challenges

The latest reactor shutdowns underscore the growing challenges that extreme weather poses to France’s energy infrastructure. As Europe’s largest producer of nuclear electricity, France depends heavily on nuclear power, making prolonged heatwaves a significant operational concern when river temperatures rise beyond safe environmental limits.