France is reducing nuclear power output at up to five plants due to record-high temperatures that have raised river levels beyond safe cooling thresholds for reactors.This follows a deadly July heatwave that caused 70,000 households to lose power and contributed to over 1,000 heat-related deaths.The crisis highlights vulnerabilities in Europe's energy infrastructure as extreme weather becomes more frequent.

Nuclear plants, which supply 70% of France's electricity, face operational challenges as water temperatures exceed safe limits for cooling systems.The situation threatens energy security across the EU, impacting Germany and the UK that rely on French nuclear exports.Hydropower and fossil fuel plants also face reduced efficiency due to heat.

Experts warn that without significant grid modernization and climate adaptation measures, Europe risks prolonged power outages and escalating energy costs.

The European Environment Agency notes that while all 27 EU nations have adaptation plans, insufficient funding has stalled implementation, exacerbating public frustration and safety risks.