Paris residents are flocking to air-conditioned hotels as relentless heatwaves push temperatures past 40C, straining infrastructure and public services. Hoteliers report last-minute bookings surging 80-85%, with families, workers, and elderly seeking respite. The zinc rooftops exacerbating urban heat, retailers report sold-out fans, and hospitals warn of overheated patient rooms.

Pride events and festivals were canceled or postponed, while schools shifted to Google’s premises for cooling. Hotels opened makeshift classrooms in dining areas, and city halls distributed ice from an ice rink to emergency services. Police banned public drinking after noon Friday, and alcohol sales will halt by 6pm to curb risky behavior amid strained ambulances.

Temperatures won’t dip below 35C until Sunday, intensifying pressure on businesses and authorities.