Heatwave Disrupts Classes in Luxembourg as Schools Rush to Protect Pupils
An intense heatwave sweeping Luxembourg has forced schools in parts of the country to cut back classes to shield children from soaring temperatures. An official orange heat alert has been issued for Wednesday, 2 July, prompting local authorities to take swift action.
In Mertert, classes for Grades 1 to 6 will be suspended. However, teachers will still be present on-site to receive students who arrive. After-school care at Maison Relais facilities will continue as normal, ensuring working parents still have support despite the classroom closures.
In Schengen, the German-Luxembourg high school in Perl will dismiss students early, wrapping up lessons at 11:40 a.m. due to extreme heat inside the building. The lunch service will be cancelled, though supervision will be provided until the usual closing time of 3:55 p.m. Luxembourg City schools, for now, plan to maintain regular schedules, although the situation is under close review.
No national directive has been announced yet, but the Ministry of Education will hold further high-level talks on Tuesday morning to decide if broader measures are needed as temperatures threaten to climb even higher.
Health experts warn that children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Parents are being urged to keep kids cool by dressing them in light, loose clothing, encouraging frequent water breaks, and packing lunches with refreshing foods like fruits and yogurt. Using sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade remain essential. At home, drawing curtains, running fans, and offering cool baths or damp towels can help lower body temperature. Physical activity should be kept to a minimum during the hottest hours between late morning and mid-afternoon.
With climate patterns bringing more frequent heatwaves, schools and families in Luxembourg face growing pressure to adapt. Staying alert to official updates and taking simple precautions can go a long way in keeping children safe and comfortable as the summer heat intensifies.