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France scrambles for air conditioners as heatwave looms; Tour de France may shorten stages

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • France is experiencing a surge in demand for air conditioners as another heatwave is forecast.
  • Shoppers have been flocking to discount stores, leading to congestion and some altercations as they scramble to buy relatively affordable cooling units.
  • The increased demand reflects a shift in public perception regarding air conditioner use, driven by increasingly frequent and severe heatwaves.

France is bracing for another heatwave, prompting a rush to purchase air conditioning units across the country. Discount stores, particularly Lidl, have seen massive crowds forming early in the morning for sales of affordable portable air conditioners priced at around 179 euros (approximately $190 USD). This surge in demand highlights a growing concern over rising temperatures and a shift in public attitude towards air conditioning, despite previous environmental concerns.

Reports indicate significant congestion and even friction at some stores. In one instance near Paris, about 200 residents waited for over an hour for a store that only had two units available, leading to frustration. Similar scenes unfolded in other areas, with traffic jams reported due to the influx of shoppers. Some shoppers expressed suspicion about the rapid depletion of stock, with one resident suggesting police officers might have acquired the units.

The police came and said there were no more stocks. Maybe the police officers took them.

— Moussa TraoréA resident described the chaotic scene at a Lidl store in Paris, expressing frustration over the lack of available air conditioners.

Historically, environmental concerns have limited the widespread use of air conditioners in France, with a recent poll showing 80% of respondents viewing them as harmful to the environment. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves are changing this perception. Sales at major retailers like Carrefour have reportedly increased dramatically, and the household air conditioner penetration rate is projected to rise from 18% in 2023 to 24% by 2025, according to the French Environment Agency.

The extreme heat has also impacted public events. The world-famous cycling race, the Tour de France, is reportedly considering shortening some stages due to the dangerous heat conditions. This move would be unprecedented, as the race has previously only been disrupted by war, strikes, or pandemics, but never by heat. Organizers acknowledge that the current heat is more severe than in previous years.

The recent heatwaves are more severe than before.

— Race officialAn official involved with the Tour de France commented on the extreme weather conditions affecting the cycling event.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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