Heat & Wildfires: Extreme heat and drought kept pressure on France and Europe, with firefighters guarding flare-ups near Bordeaux and ongoing efforts to stabilise blazes in Provence as conditions remain volatile. Drought Hits Power: EDF shut down three nuclear reactors after river flows fell in the Meuse and Moselle, forcing output reductions across several sites. WWII Danger After Fires: A Gironde wildfire near Le Porge uncovered about 400 WWII shells and munitions, triggering more than 100 explosions and leaving some areas restricted while demining continues. Tour de France Femmes: Harshita Jakhar, 19, became the first Indian woman to take part in the Tour de France Femmes, riding in the ceremonial start of Stage 2. Transport Disruption: A major section of the A1 motorway in northern France closes for roadworks until August 14, with diversions for Paris-to-Lille traffic. Channel Migrants Row: Reform UK unveiled “Operation Fortress” to use the Royal Navy to intercept small boats and return them to France/Belgium, drawing sharp criticism from Labour and France. Energy Transition: Brittany Ferries’ first plug-in electric ferry departed Portsmouth for Caen after charging at a new shore-power facility. Tech & Privacy: CNIL guidance is prompting French organisations to email users about tracking pixels and email open tracking.