Orange Heatwave Alert Issued for Haute-Loire and Puy-de-Dôme as Auvergne Faces Fourth Intense Heatwave

On July 29, 2026, Météo-France placed the Haute-Loire and Puy-de-Dôme departments in the Auvergne region under an orange heatwave alert starting at noon. This marks the fourth heatwave in Auvergne since late spring, driven by a mass of hot air from the south expected to persist into the coming week.

Temperatures in Clermont-Ferrand are forecast to soar to a scorching 41 °C, with highs between 36 and 39 °C anticipated in the Limagne area, and around 32 °C at elevations near 1,000 meters. Nights will remain uncomfortably warm, with minimum temperatures between 17 and 20 °C.

The prefect of Haute-Loire has urged residents, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and those with chronic conditions, to take precautions. Recommended measures include staying hydrated, maintaining regular eating habits, cooling off with misting devices or tepid showers, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Organizers of outdoor events must assess conditions carefully to ensure participant safety, providing shaded areas, ventilation, and hydration or postponing events if necessary.

Heightened vigilance is also necessary to prevent wildfires, with strict prohibitions on fires and adherence to forest access restrictions.

This heatwave follows a recent history of record-breaking temperatures in the region, with the Allier department recording up to 43 °C at the end of June. Authorities emphasize the importance of community support, particularly checking in on isolated or elderly individuals to help them find cooler environments.

Residents are advised to stay informed and follow official safety recommendations as this intense heatwave continues to impact the Auvergne region.