France Faces Severe Weather Warnings and Forest Access Restrictions Amid Ongoing 2026 Heatwave

As the 2026 heatwave persists across France, authorities have issued extensive severe weather warnings and extended forest access restrictions to ensure public safety and protect the environment. On August 15, more than 60 departments are under an orange alert for heatwaves and yellow alert for thunderstorms, with Météo France forecasting violent storms particularly in southwestern regions. Temperatures are expected to peak between 35°C and 40°C in the eastern half, while the west experiences highs from 30°C to 35°C. Thunderstorms could bring heavy rain, hail, and strong wind gusts reaching 60 to 80 km/h.

In response to the intense heat and drought conditions, several forested areas—including Trois Pignons and the state forests of Fontainebleau, Commanderie, Nanteau-Poligny, and the communal forest of Nemours—remain off-limits to the public until August 21, as per the latest prefectural decrees. These measures aim to protect natural ecosystems and reduce the risk of fires, alongside temporary traffic regulations on roads D301 and D152.

While temperatures are expected to decrease later this week, southeastern France will continue to endure highs surpassing 35°C with ongoing thunderstorm risks across southern departments. These coordinated measures emphasize preparedness amid extreme weather volatility during the summer heatwave.