France is sizzling in the midst of yet another European heatwave with Bordeaux recording the highest temperatures in its history today. The swell of searing temperatures has sparked an official safety message from the FCO, for UK travellers set to make the short trip to the European country. The official advice was updated today in light of what it deems “extreme temperatures” forecast for the entirety of the week. It now states: “Extreme temperatures are forecast across most of France in the week commencing 22 July, with daytime temperatures over 40ºC and overnight temperatures over 20ºC in parts of the country.
“The French authorities have issued advice (in English) on sensible precautions to take.”
This flags warning signs such as muscle cramps, extreme tiredness or sparking incoherently as signals someone is suffering from heatwave-related symptoms.
It states to specific groups of French travellers: “Anyone over the age of 60 or with a handicap, is entitled to personalised support.
“You simply need to contact your mairie (town hall) or the CCAS (Centre Communal d’Action Sociale – Centre for Social Action).”
France has been issued with an orange weather alert, which is the second-highest on the scale.
Today, Meteo France registered 41.2C on the temperature scale, with highs forecast for Thursday.
A World Meteorological Organization (WMO) spokeswoman has said the heatwave represents: “The hallmark of climate change.”
Mail Online reported local media claims that the individuals – aged 70, 62 and 75 – dived into the water at the beach of Marseillan Plage, near Montpellier, before being struck with cold shock.
The 70 year old is said to then have died following cardiac arrest, while all are believed to have fallen foul of hydrocution, or cold shock, in the 33 degree heat.
Cold shock is described as the response of organisms to sudden cold, especially cold water.
In humans, cold shock response is the most common cause of death from immersion in very cold water.
This can happen quite easily in summertime, if tourists are dipping in the sea to cool off after sunbathing.
The shock of the cold causes involuntary inhalation, which if someone is underwater, can result in drowning.
It can also cause heart attack due to vasoconstriction, where blood vessels constrict thereby increasing blood pressure.
The RNLI has advised how floating is the best technique should Britons be struck by cold shock.
