Orange Heatwave Alerts Extended to 84 Departments Across France
France faces orange heatwave alerts across 84 regions as temperatures soar and public health measures are initiated.
Key Points
- • 84 departments under orange heatwave alert starting June 30, 2025.
- • Temperatures could reach 41°C in some areas; safety measures for vulnerable populations announced.
- • About 200 schools to close or adapt operations to protect students from heat.
- • Public advised to recognize heat-related symptoms and stay hydrated.
The weather warnings across France have escalated as orange heatwave alerts are now declared for 84 departments, effective June 30, 2025. These alerts come as temperatures soar, with predictions of highs reaching between 37°C and 40°C in southern France, and some areas potentially hitting up to 41°C. The current heatwave is the 50th national occurrence since 1947 and is attributed to climate change, fueled by a 'heat dome' effect that traps heat and prevents cooler air from circulating, as per Météo France's reports.
Initially, on June 29, 2025, 73 departments were placed under alert due to rising temperatures. Notably, the mercury recorded overnight lows that remained unusually high, such as 28.0°C in Caixas and daily highs peaking at 40.9°C in Grospierres. Agnès Pannier-Runacher, the minister of ecological transition, highlighted the extraordinary nature of the situation, recalling that the prior peak alert was for 81 departments during the intense heat wave of July 2019.
In response to the extreme weather, the government is taking significant action by reactivating a green helpline (0.800.06.66.66) aimed at providing health and safety advice to the public. Measures to assist vulnerable groups, like the elderly and those with health issues, are underway, with local authorities distributing water and conducting wellness check-ins. Approximately 200 public schools are expected to face either partial or complete closures as safety measures during the peak heat.
In the Seine-et-Marne area, residents are advised to adjust outdoor activities and monitor vulnerable populations closely. Organizers of public events are compelled to ensure safety protocols are in place to mitigate fire risks associated with the heat. Health officials emphasize recognizing heat-related symptoms, which may include cramps, fatigue, headaches, and fever.
The Préfecture de l'Indre reinforced similar warnings, advising schools to modify schedules to safeguard students from heat exposure, with potential closures if conditions worsen. Local officials are tasked with adapting school operations based on indoor temperatures and overall safety assessments. A press conference is scheduled for June 30, 2025, to further address the measures being implemented in light of the ongoing heatwave.