Rejected Decision on Heat and Cheese Intoxication in New Caledonia
Heatwave in France Hits Record Highs, Causes Widespread Alerts
France is currently grappling with its 51st heatwave since 1947, with the peak occurring around August 15, 2025. This heatwave, the second major one of the summer, was a rare or extreme event, according to Météo-France, making summer 2025 the third-hottest on record after 2003 and 2022.
Many southern and central departments experienced extreme temperatures, frequently reaching or exceeding 40°C. Nîmes, for instance, was forecast to reach 42°C. At its peak, 54 departments were under orange heatwave alerts, covering much of southern France and extending as far north as southern Brittany.
The heatwave caused several associated risks. High temperatures stressed vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. There was also dramatic soil and groundwater drought, with more than half of France under drought orders by early August. This affected agriculture and ecosystems significantly.
Wildfires and damage to agriculture and livestock were also prevalent, impacting winemakers and farmers severely. Mental health decline among at-risk groups due to prolonged heat exposure was another concern. The intense heatwave also led to increased pressure on firefighters and hospitals amid rising emergency calls.
After the mid-August peak, the heatwave began to subside around August 18-22, with temperatures dropping significantly and the end of heatwave alerts. This transition was followed by storms moving in, signaling a weather change after the prolonged heat.
However, after the heat, there is a risk of locally strong thunderstorms in the southwest and southeast of France. Twelve departments have been placed on orange alert for potential strong storms.
Meanwhile, in New Caledonia, the FLNKS has rejected the Bougival agreement and is demanding elections in November. The Bougival agreement, which provides for the creation of a "New Caledonia State", Caledonian nationality, and the possibility of transferring regulatory competencies (currency, justice, police), does not mention a new referendum on independence, sparking outrage among independence activists.
References: 1. BBC News 2. The Local France 3. Le Monde 4. The Weather Channel 5. Euronews
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