France Faces Historic Heatwave with Wide-ranging Alerts and Health Precautions
France is grappling with a significant heatwave with widespread health precautions in place.
Key Points
- • 53 departments under orange alert as of June 28, 2025.
- • Temperatures forecasted to hit 30-40°C; June 30 expected to be among the hottest days recorded.
- • Health precautions include free access to air-conditioned spaces and regular hydration advice for vulnerable populations.
- • Events organizers are urged to implement safety measures in light of increased fire risks.
France is currently enduring a historic heatwave, with 53 departments under orange alert as of June 28, 2025. Predicted temperatures in various regions are expected to soar between 30°C and 40°C, especially in southern and central parts of the country. The heatwave is largely attributed to a stable high-pressure system known as a 'heat dome,' which is blocking cooler air and allowing hot air from the Sahara to flow into France. Meteorologist Tristan Amm cited that this event marks the 50th national heatwave observed since 1947, reflecting alarming trends linked to climate change.
Specific regions such as Aude, Vaucluse, and Var are experiencing extreme conditions, with Météo-France estimating that June 30 could potentially be one of the hottest days recorded in France's history for June, with maximums forecasted up to 40°C. The current situation has prompted local authorities to implement precautionary measures to safeguard vulnerable populations. Authorities in Marseille, for instance, are providing free access to air-conditioned public spaces and distributing water as part of their response to the heat.