Scorching temperatures shatter records across southwest France, ushering in a heatwave
Record-Breaking Heatwave Sweeps Across France
A severe heatwave is currently gripping France, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels in various cities. The southwest region, in particular, is experiencing extreme heat, with Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Carcassonne recording temperatures of around 41-43°C on August 11-12.
On this specific day, Bordeaux reached a peak temperature of 41.6°C, breaking its previous record of 41.2°C set on July 23, 2019. The heatwave, driven by a strong Heat Dome centered over Europe, has brought a prolonged period of extreme heat, particularly in southern and southwestern France.
As the heatwave moves north, Paris and other central/northern regions are experiencing high temperatures, with forecasts for widespread 35-37°C and local peaks up to 38-39°C. The heatwave is expected to last until at least the weekend, potentially lasting until August 19 or 20, according to a forecaster at Meteo France.
In response to the heatwave, more than 60 departments, including the Ile-de-France region that includes Paris, will be placed on orange heatwave alert, the second-highest. Four more departments will be placed on red alert from midday Tuesday, according to the national weather service. The red alert corresponds to an "extreme heatwave, exceptional in its duration, intensity, and geographical extent".
The heatwave has already had a significant impact on health and human activities. The French public health agency has called for vigilance, urging people to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and coffee, and take regular breaks in cool, shaded areas.
| City | Recent Peak/Aug 12 Temp | Forecast (mid-August) | |-------------|-------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Bordeaux | ~41.6°C | Low 40s °C | | Toulouse | ~41.0°C | Low 40s °C | | Carcassonne | ~41.0°C | Low 40s °C | | Paris | - | 35-37°C, up to 38-39°C locally |
As the heatwave continues, it is crucial for everyone to take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
The unusually high temperatures in Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Carcassonne, caused by the current heatwave, call for environmental-science research to understand the long-term implications of such extreme weather events on the health of the population and the environment. Amidst the ongoing heatwave, health authorities advise the public to take measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and coffee, and seeking cool, shaded areas to avoid heat-related illnesses.
