A heatwave has intensified across France with temperatures that could reach 40C (104F) by the end of the weekend.

The unusually hot conditions, that are expected to last several days, have placed 26 departments (counties) under an “orange” warning including Paris. The heat has also prompted authorities to introduce a range of safety measures to protect residents:

• French train company SNCF has suspended 71 intercity services between Thursday and Monday.
• Many schools have introduced partial closures including Paris and Toulouse, and some school examinations may be rescheduled if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• The Canal Saint-Martin has been opened for people to cool down in the water and local councils are using drones to monitor unauthorized swimming.
• 51 departments across France are under local decrees to reduce the use of drinking water.
• Some supermarkets are allowing pets in their stores to avoid them being left in overheated cars.