Heatwave Sparks Rush for Fans and Air Conditioners Across France

Paris:An intense heatwave sweeping across France has triggered panic buying of fans and portable air conditioners, with reports of shoppers clashing inside supermarkets as demand far exceeded available supplies.

According to international media reports, large crowds gathered outside supermarkets early in the morning after a major retail chain announced it would offer **200,000 fans and portable air conditioners** for sale nationwide.

At a store in **Nanterre**, west of Paris, more than 100 customers rushed inside as soon as the doors opened. Witnesses reported scuffles among shoppers competing to secure cooling appliances, while security personnel were called in to restore order.

Only around 10 customers at the Nanterre store were reportedly able to purchase a fan or portable air conditioner before stocks ran out. At another outlet, shelves were emptied within minutes, with disputes breaking out over the last remaining units.

The surge in demand comes as much of Europe continues to experience extreme temperatures exceeding **40°C**, placing increasing pressure on households seeking relief from the prolonged heat.

Meanwhile, **Spain** recorded **1,029 heat-related deaths** during the month of June, marking the country’s highest June death toll linked to extreme heat since **2015**, according to reported figures. The ongoing heatwave has raised concerns among health authorities across Europe about the risks posed by prolonged exposure to exceptionally high temperatures.