France Faces Severe Heatwave as Alerts Expand Across Regions
A severe heatwave across France has led to multiple regional alerts, with public safety measures in place to protect vulnerable populations.
Key Points
- • Red heatwave alert in Indre; temperatures expected over 40°C
- • 84 departments under orange alert, with 16 upgraded to red
- • Emergency measures include public access to air-conditioned spaces
- • Health risks highlighted; hotline activated for assistance
Across France, extreme heat is prompting widespread alerts and public safety measures as the nation grapples with soaring temperatures predicted to exceed 40°C in various regions. Météo France has escalated its warnings, placing 16 departments including the Indre and Bouches-du-Rhône under red heatwave alerts, while 84 others are under orange alerts, indicating a severe risk to public health due to the heat.
The red alert for the Indre department begins tomorrow at noon, with temperatures expected to surpass 40°C during the day and not drop below 25°C at night. Authorities are mobilizing state services to address this situation, advising parents to keep children at home as much as possible. Local schools will remain open at the discretion of municipalities, with arrangements for cooling measures and hydration in place. Moreover, emergency services have reported four fires already, burning around 2 hectares, leading to restrictions on agricultural activities and increased surveillance in forested areas to prevent further incidents (Sources: 8943, 8955).
In the Allier department, an orange alert has been initiated due to prolonged heat conditions, with temperatures forecasted to remain between 35 to 38°C for the remainder of the week. State services are actively safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and isolated individuals, who are encouraged to register for support with their local mairie. Outreach efforts and emergency accommodation for the homeless are also being enhanced (Sources: 8944).
Similarly, the Bouches-du-Rhône has maintained an orange vigilance alert since June 27, prioritizing support for those particularly at risk, including individuals with chronic illnesses and the elderly, by promoting hydration and minimizing outdoor activities during peak heat times (Sources: 8942).
The Corrèze department is also facing an ongoing orange weather alert, as peak temperatures are expected to reach between 37 to 39 degrees Celsius, emphasizing the need for public awareness and safety measures against the heat (Sources: 8948).
The government's response includes making air-conditioned public spaces like museums and swimming pools accessible free of charge in some cities, and activating a heat-related information hotline to assist the public. This unprecedented heatwave is characterized by temperatures 10 to 15 degrees above normal, raising significant concern for public health and safety (Sources: 8955).
As the situation develops, local authorities are emphasizing the importance of vigilance and community support, especially for vulnerable individuals during this challenging weather event.