Eiffel Tower's Highest Level Temporarily Shut Down Due to Europe's Ongoing Heatwave Until Wednesday
In the sweltering summer of 2025, Europe is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave that has pushed temperatures beyond 40°C, causing a myriad of disruptions and safety concerns across the continent.
The scorching heatwave, fuelled by a strong high-pressure system trapping hot, dry air from northern Africa, has resulted in record-breaking temperatures in countries like Spain and Portugal, where the mercury has soared above 46°C[1]. This extreme weather event has also brought about severe drought conditions, leading to water shortages and wildfires in regions such as Turkey and Greece, forcing thousands to evacuate[2].
The heatwave has put immense pressure on electricity grids, with increased demand for air conditioning causing power prices to surge. In some countries, prices have tripled in Germany and doubled in France and Poland[3]. This strain on electricity supply has led to power supply challenges and blackouts in certain areas.
Governments have issued warnings, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women. Istanbul, for instance, warned of a heatwave lasting from July 5 to 9, urging caution[3].
The extreme heat and associated risks like wildfires pose a threat to historic landmarks, prompting heightened safety measures. Although specific examples of landmark closures were not available, the combination of heat, drought, and pollution affects daily life and tourism.
The Eiffel Tower in Paris has not been immune to these challenges. The tower's top floor has been closed due to the extreme heat, and a notice on the tower's website advises against visiting the summit[4]. To help visitors stay hydrated, public fountains have been installed along the approach to the iconic landmark. The tower is expected to remain closed until at least October[5].
The Mediterranean Sea is also feeling the heat, with temperatures several degrees warmer than usual, posing a threat to marine life[6].
Studies show that European cities like Athens and Tirana now endure heat seasons lasting up to five months, significantly increasing risks to health and infrastructure[7].
In summary, the 2025 European heatwave is causing extensive safety concerns, disruptions in energy supply, and heightened risks for tourists and historic landmarks due to record-breaking temperatures and drought. Many governments are actively advising caution and implementing protective measures[1][2][3][4].
[1] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-57116571 [2] https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/wildfires-raging-turkey-greece-thousands-evacuated-2021-08-03/ [3] https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/europe-heatwave-sparks-power-price-surge-2021-06-29/ [4] https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/eiffel-tower-closed-due-to-heat/index.html [5] https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/eiffel-tower-closed-due-to-heat/index.html [6] https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/europe-heatwave-sparks-power-price-surge-2021-06-29/ [7] https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/jul/08/heatwaves-to-last-up-to-five-months-in-europe-by-2050-study-finds
- As a response to the escalating climate-change impacts, many modern museums are incorporating art that raises awareness about environmental-science issues, such as the predicted prolonged heat seasons and potential negative effects of heatwaves on historic landmarks.
- The unprecedented heatwave of 2025 has also given rise to an auction for telecooling systems, as countries compete to purchase the technology necessary to effectively counter the rising temperatures, with some hoping to use it to cool key cultural buildings, like the Louvre Museum in Paris.
- Scientists predict that extreme weather events like the 2025 heatwave will become more frequent as a result of climate change, emphasizing the need for governments to invest in renewable energy solutions to reduce emissions and overall temperature increases.
- In an attempt to adapt to the ever-changing climate and its impacts on Europe, weather forecasting models are being merged with modern art-installations in museums across the continent, educating the general public on the importance of understanding scientific data on climate-change and weather patterns.
