French Government Sets Up Interministerial Crisis Unit Amid Heatwave Criticism

Amid escalating political pressure and public concern over its handling of the 2026 heatwave, the French government has announced the creation of an interministerial crisis cell to coordinate a stronger response. The cell is set to meet on Monday afternoon to address mounting accusations of "incompetence" and "inaction" leveled at the executive branch.

President Emmanuel Macron has expressed irritation over the criticism, asserting that significant efforts have already been made to manage the crisis. Meanwhile, Sébastien Lecornu, the official in charge of crisis management, is maintaining a restrained communication strategy to avoid appearing unsettled.

The heatwave has prompted departments like Yvelines to declare a red alert since June 21, with temperatures peaking at 41°C during the day and staying high overnight around 26°C. State services there have mobilized extensively to protect the population, implementing measures such as banning outdoor sports from 10 AM to 9 PM, regulating agricultural and construction activities to reduce fire risks and protect workers, and urging the public to conserve water amid critically low river levels.

Despite these efforts, Santé publique France has reported an alarming excess mortality of around 1,000 deaths, including a notable rise in fatalities at home, with healthcare professionals under intense strain on the frontlines.

Adding to concerns, meteorologists at Météo-France have issued warnings of another severe heatwave expected in mid-July, signaling a potential escalation of the crisis.

This coordinated government response aims to rally ministries and local authorities to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further fatalities as France grapples with the extreme and prolonged heatwave conditions.