A massive ongoing second wave of the coronavirus pandemic across Europe has prompted many countries to tighten their preventive measures, including reimposing lockdowns, to stem the spread of the disease. On Wednesday evening, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that a nationwide lockdown will be reimposed from Friday, adding that the "virus is circulating at a speed that not even the most pessimistic forecasts had anticipated". France on Wednesday reported 36,437 new cases, bringing the national tally to 1,235,132 with 35,785 deaths, according to figures released by French Public Health Agency. Under the new lockdown, the only authorized out-of-home trips will be "to go to work, a medical appointment, to provide assistance, shopping or to take the air", said Macron. The restrictive measures will affect universities, libraries, bars, cafes, restaurants and gyms. Public gatherings will be banned, and cultural ceremonies and conferences suspended. (IANS)