France Faces Intense Heatwave as 73 Departments Under Orange Alert
France's recent heatwave leads to orange alerts across 73 departments with local school closures.
Key Points
- • 73 departments in France are under orange alert for extreme heat.
- • Local authorities can decide on school closures case-by-case.
- • Temperatures expected to peak at around 40°C in several regions.
- • Helpline available for public to seek advice on heatwave safety.
As of June 29, 2025, France is grappling with an intense heatwave, with the government placing 73 departments under orange alert. Education Minister Elisabeth Borne highlighted that while there will be no nationwide school closures, local authorities can decide on closures based on specific regional circumstances. Some municipalities, such as Tours and Vaucluse, have already implemented afternoon school closures due to the extreme temperatures expected to peak at around 40°C in the coming days.
According to Météo-France, the Sarthe department is experiencing an orange-level heatwave warning where temperatures today could range from 33 to 35°C, escalating towards a potential peak of 39°C by June 30. The prefecture recommends residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and maintain a cool home by adjusting windows and shutters.
In the Loire department, authorities have warned of daytime temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius, with minimal relief during the night where temperatures may not drop below 20°C. The region is preparing for further intensification of the heatwave, particularly as peak temperatures are forecasted for Wednesday.
Similarly, the Vendée region announced an orange-level heatwave alert starting today, with forecasts indicating temperatures could reach between 32 to 37°C. The local prefecture is advising vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with health issues, to be particularly cautious, urging community support to check on isolated individuals.
Additionally, a helpline (0800 06 66 66) has been reactivated by the Ministry of Health to assist residents in adapting to the heat, providing guidance on hydration and keeping cool. This heatwave is a stark reminder of the health risks posed by extreme weather, particularly for vulnerable groups prone to dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Community precautions and the dissemination of information are key as the heatwave is set to continue into the following week, raising concerns about public health and safety across affected regions.