Inclement Weather in France: Temperatures Soar Over 40°C, Troublesome Nights Forecasted... Predictions for the upcoming heatwave.
France Endures Intense Heatwave, with Over Two-Thirds of the Country Under Alert
France is currently experiencing a significant heatwave, with 14 departments currently under red alert and about two-thirds of the country under orange heatwave alerts[3]. The departments under red alert are mostly in the southern half and central eastern parts, including areas around Lyon, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, and Vendée[3][4].
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Expected temperatures are frequently reaching 40°C or above in several departments. For example, Nîmes recorded a peak of 40.9°C, the highest ever in August since record-keeping began in 1964[3]. In parts of Charente and Aude, temperatures soared as high as 43°C[2]. Montpellier forecasted temperatures reaching 42°C by mid-August[5]. Other cities like Perpignan also saw 40°C, with Bordeaux and Toulouse reaching around 38°C[1][3].
Possible records have been set or challenged during this heatwave, including the highest August temperature on record in Nîmes and unprecedented temperatures across southwestern France, where it has been hotter than the usually warmer Mediterranean coast due to changes in regional winds[3].
Regions Affected and Peak Temperatures
The regions mainly affected by the red alert include southern and central eastern France, with peaks up to 43°C (Charente, Aude), and 40.9°C in Nîmes[3]. Departments under orange alert include the southern half of the country, including Hérault, Var, Ardèche, Drôme, and some northern areas, Corsica[3].
Health and Fire Risks
The heatwave, France’s second of the summer of 2025, has lasted over a week and posed serious health and fire risks, leading to strict measures such as cancellation of outdoor events and modification of school activities in red alert departments[2][4].
Staying Safe During the Heatwave
Authorities advise regular hydration, avoiding alcohol and coffee, reducing physical activities, and postponing sports sessions during the heatwave. The Public Health France agency also recommends keeping cool and seeking air-conditioned environments when possible[6].
The Canicule info service hotline is available at 0 800 06 66 66 for advice on protecting oneself and one's surroundings during a heatwave[7].
Current Status
As of August 20, 2025, authorities remain vigilant about fires due to the heat, with the Aude department remaining on orange alert for forest fire risks on Tuesday[8]. 40°C is expected in Lyon (Rhône), and also 36°C in Lille (Nord) and Paris, which will be under orange alert[8].
Four additional departments will be placed under red alert from Tuesday at 12 pm[9]. Charente and Charente-Maritime will be downgraded to an orange alert level from 6 am[10]. Minimum overnight temperatures remain high, making nights quite challenging to live through.
Looking Ahead
With the heatwave expected to continue until Tuesday, August 12, it is crucial for the population to stay informed and follow the advice of authorities to stay safe and healthy[11].
References:
- BBC News
- The Guardian
- Météo-France
- Le Monde
- France 24
- Public Health France
- Canicule info service
- Le Figaro
- France Bleu
- La Depeche
- Météo-France
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