Europe heatwave rages: Two children found dead in car in France

Amidst a severe heatwave gripping Europe, a tragic incident has occurred in southern France where two young children were found dead inside a car. The children, aged two and four, were discovered in a vehicle parked in a residential area in Carpentras.

Investigators believe the extreme heat is the likely cause of their deaths. This tragedy unfolds as much of Europe experiences intense high temperatures, leading to the cancellation of outdoor activities, disruption of transportation, and school closures. Governments have issued health warnings, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable populations.

France has been particularly affected by the prolonged heat, with authorities closing 1,350 schools and shortening hours for another 4,000. The government's emergency response team has cautioned citizens against swimming in unsupervised bodies of water. The heatwave has also led to numerous drowning incidents across Europe, with at least 13 people dying over the weekend, including a 13-year-old girl. German police reported five drowning deaths over the weekend.

The UK's Met Office issued a rare red extreme heat warning, signifying a threat to life and potential disruption to infrastructure. Temperatures in shaded areas are expected to reach 38-40 degrees Celsius on July 24 and 25. This marks the second time the Met Office has issued such a high-level alert.