French municipalities roll out cooling centers and reject school air‑conditioning amid heat wave

The town of Pont‑l’Évêque (France) has reopened several air‑conditioned public rooms—including municipal halls, nursing homes and a commercial gallery—to shelter residents vulnerable to the ongoing heat wave. Free minibus service is offered to transport people to these venues, and the local authority advises regular hydration, avoidance of peak‑heat outings and checking on isolated neighbours.

In Nîmes, the municipal council decided not to install air‑conditioners in the city’s 83 schools. Deputy for Education Pierre‑Edouard Detrez said, “La climatisation n’est pas la réponse universelle,” arguing that the proposal would cost tens of millions of euros, increase energy consumption and conflict with environmental law. Instead, the city plans a broader renovation programme for school buildings, with a budget of around 50 million euros spread over several years.

Both towns are taking measures to protect citizens from extreme temperatures, but differ in approach: Pont‑l’Évêque provides immediate cooling spaces, while Nîmes focuses on longer‑term building upgrades rather than installing air‑conditioning units.