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Companies are reporting a drop in business, reflecting the economic toll of the heat wave, which is lowering productivity and keeping shoppers at bay.
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Europe’s Heat Wave Persists, Moving Eastward
The heat wave moved toward Germany after affecting southwestern Europe, including Spain and France, earlier this week.
“Yes, this year is the hardest year I’ve seen since 15 years I’m living here in Germany. I’m from Kurdistan. We’re normally children of the sun. But for me, it’s too hot. We drink some water. Good water at work 5 liters, 6 liters.” “We have just received an email and the tickets are canceled. And we bought all of them three years ago. But, just for the heat, it’s not possible to go upstairs. So, I don’t know.”
By Liz Alderman
Liz Alderman, who covers the European economy and businesses, reported from Paris.
July 2, 2025, 12:25 p.m. ET
Spanish authorities are investigating the death of a street sweeper who collapsed this week in the intense heat wave gripping Europe. Italy has banned outdoor work during the hottest hours. Schools in France have been shuttered. Even the top of the Eiffel Tower is closed.
As Europe puts its citizens on alert for record temperatures, the increasing frequency of extreme heat is raising an urgent question: How hot is too hot to work?
The French government issued a directive Tuesday strengthening rules for businesses to keep employees cool, as officials warned that working in extreme heat “can increase the risk of workplace accidents, including serious or fatal ones.”
Under the rules, French businesses must ensure they are lowering heat risk for all workers. In offices, that means modifying work spaces near sunny windows or providing more ventilation and water. People toiling in construction, farming and other outdoor activities have the right to demand shorter work hours and heat-protective equipment.
But on a continent where air conditioning is more of an exception than a rule, the challenges are huge and come with an economic toll. In addition to adapting the workplace to heat, companies are reporting a decline in business as consumers and tourists stay out of stores that are not cooled.
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