After long gloomy months, the intense summer heat has arrived in France, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels. On a Saturday afternoon, France recorded its first 40-degree day of the year, particularly in Cérét, Pyrénées-Orientales, where the temperature peaked at 40.8°C. Other regions, especially in the south-east, also experienced extreme heat, with Vaucluse reaching 39.9°C and Var exceeding 38°C. However, thunderstorms rolled in to break this heat wave by Saturday evening, as Météo France predicted a warmer than normal quarter for the south of the country.
Meanwhile, Germany is bracing for a hot weekend with temperatures expected to reach around 35 degrees. The heat wave originates from southern Europe, where countries like Italy, Spain, and Portugal are grappling with extreme temperatures above 40 degrees. Meteorologists warn that while Germany will experience high temperatures, it also faces the risk of severe weather, including thunderstorms. The German Weather Service has issued heat warnings for various regions, indicating that while the heat will be intense, it will be accompanied by potential thunderstorms over the weekend.
In a different context, Disneyland employees are facing their own challenges as negotiations for better salaries and working conditions heat up. A significant number of employees are set to vote on a strike authorization, which would mark the first strike at Disneyland in 40 years. The underlying issues stem from low wages that many workers claim do not provide a living wage, particularly in the high-cost area of Southern California. Employees like Cyn Carranza, who has struggled to afford basic living expenses, illustrate the broader financial struggles faced by many workers at the park. Disneyland officials have stated their commitment to maintaining operations during a potential strike but face scrutiny over employee compensation amidst rising living costs.
