Wildfires & Heatwave Fallout: Firefighters battled multiple southern France blazes after weeks of dry weather and record June heat, with up to 3,000 people evacuated and water-bombing helicopters deployed as authorities warned conditions remain “particularly unfavorable.” Public Health & Safety: Sports minister Marina Ferrari said drowning deaths linked to the heat wave have topped 90 since June 19, urging families and young people to stay alert near rivers, canals and beaches. Water Crisis Alert: France issued a water safety warning after more than 90 drowning deaths, as officials stress the risk persists even as temperatures ease. Algeria Vote: Algerians went to the polls for parliamentary elections dominated by cost-of-living worries, low turnout and opposition candidate exclusions, with nearly 25 million registered voters. France-UK Football Politics: The UK government confirmed no extra Bank Holiday for England’s 1am World Cup match vs Mexico, though councils were encouraged to consider extended broadcast licensing. Tour de France Disruption Watch: Organisers warned extreme heat could force stage cancellations, with another hot spell predicted as the race starts in Barcelona. Consumer Pressure on Cooling: Shoppers in Paris rushed to buy discounted portable air conditioners, highlighting stock shortages and frustration with store availability. France-Morocco Diplomacy: France’s new ambassador to Morocco began his mission with a visit to Laayoune, underscoring Paris’s focus on the Sahara region and cooperation plans.