Anticipated Temperature surge over the upcoming weekend, accompanied by a predicted 'temperature peak'?
As France continues to bask in the heat of a prolonged heatwave, the country is experiencing more than just soaring temperatures. The heatwave, expected to last until at least August 19, and possibly until August 20, is taking a toll on mental health, with significant increases in psychiatric emergencies and heightened eco-anxiety[1][2].
On the weather front, while some parts of France may experience clouds on Saturday, August 15, the east of the country will remain very sunny. The thermometer is expected to reach record-breaking highs across the nation, with Bordeaux forecasted to hit 40°C on Sunday, August 16. Other cities, such as Toulouse, Biarritz, and Montpellier, will see temperatures of 38°C and 37°C, respectively, on the same day[3].
On Saturday, August 15, maximum temperatures are expected to reach up to 39°C in Montpellier and Bordeaux, 35°C in Nantes, Tarbes, Limoges, and Montélimar. The temperatures in Brest will be 20°C in the morning on Friday, August 15, and will rise to a warm 34°C by the afternoon[3].
However, the clear skies over France will be disrupted by possible storms in Corsica and the Alps. Despite these storms, the sky will remain cloudless in most areas[3].
While the heatwave has not been directly linked to changes in crime rates within the available data, it is worth noting that excessive heat can sometimes influence social behaviors[4].
This heatwave is part of a broader pattern linked to human-caused climate disruption, with France experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves since 2000[4]. Besides mental health, there have been serious physical health impacts, especially among the elderly, with thousands of excess deaths during the early summer heatwave[3][5].
The intense heat, including tropical nights that prevent physical recovery, likely contributes to the overall strain on public health systems and vulnerable individuals[4]. It is crucial to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and check on vulnerable neighbours during this time.
[1] Source: https://www.lemonde.fr/sciences/article/2020/07/28/la-chaleur-et-les-maladies-mentales_6049828_3244.html [2] Source: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/eco-anxiety/202007/the-impact-heatwaves-on-our-mental-health [3] Source: https://www.meteofrance.com/ [4] Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/jul/30/french-heatwave-part-of-broader-pattern-linked-to-human-caused-climate-disruption [5] Source: https://www.thelocal.fr/20200727/france-heatwave-linked-to-thousands-of-excess-deaths-as-temperatures-soar
- The prolonged heatwave in France, a part of a broader pattern linked to human-caused climate disruption, is not only causing soaring temperatures but also leading to increased instances of eco-anxiety, as the field of environmental science further demonstrates the long-term effects of such weather events.
- The weather front in France this weekend is forecasted to see record-breaking highs, with Bordeaux predicted to reach 40°C, contributing to the ongoing heatwave that has strong connections with the science of climate and its impact on the environment.
