The extreme heat wave affecting France has caused heavy losses in the agriculture and livestock sectors. French official Genevard announced that 6 thousand tons of poultry died in Brittany.
In an assessment on BFMTV, Genevard noted that when the air temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius, poultry cannot cool down. He stated that such extreme temperatures trigger animal deaths.
Genevard announced that the government has stepped in to support farmers, saying that breeders will be provided with credit facilities to install fans and misting systems. It was stated that these loans, targeting especially poultry farmers, aim to take precautions against future heat waves.
Genevard also reported that he will meet with insurance companies this week to ensure that compensation for the sector is paid quickly. Emphasizing the need to improve water storage capacities, the official said, "If we do not increase our storage capacity, we will not be able to fight against climate change."
France has been battling extreme heat conditions that have been in effect since June 18. While hospitals experienced congestion due to the temperatures, 109 people died in a single day in Paris on June 26. In some homes, hospitals and schools without air conditioning, windows were covered with thermal blankets to try to lower the indoor temperature.