Hundreds crowd Paris supermarkets seeking cheap air conditioners ahead of heatwave

Hundreds of shoppers converged on supermarkets around Paris on Thursday, sparking scuffles and shouting as they sought discounted air‑cooling units in anticipation of an approaching heatwave. The rush to secure portable fans and small air conditioners was driven by rising temperatures forecast for the coming days, prompting residents to line up for bargains before the demand surged.

The confrontations unfolded in several major retail chains, with some customers reportedly pushing and shoving to secure the limited stock. Security staff were called in to manage the crowds, and local police officers were deployed to maintain order and ensure safety. The incident highlighted the growing public concern over the heatwave’s impact on daily life and the strain on supply chains for climate‑control appliances.

Authorities have urged calm and advised shoppers to follow safety guidelines while purchasing cooling equipment. The French government has announced plans to monitor the situation closely and to provide additional support to vulnerable populations as the heatwave intensifies.