Heatwave in France: 35 red alerts raised, Monday to be even hotter

France is facing one of its most intense June heatwaves on record, with 35 departments under the highest red weather alert on Sunday with extreme temperatures expected to last though the week.

The most severe conditions stretch across the Paris region through France to the south-west, where temperatures are expected to reach 39C to 41C on Sunday. 

A further 45 departments are under high (orange) alert, meaning around 53 million people are affected by heat warnings across the country.

Areas around the Mediterranean coast and parts of northern France are forecast to remain slightly cooler.

Météo-France describes the episode as being of "exceptional intensity", drawing comparisons with the heatwaves of August 2003 and July 2019.

Monday expected to be worse

Temperatures are forecast to intensify on Monday, with maximum temperatures of 40C to 42C expected in departments under red alert.

"The temperature average across mainland France could reach the level of the hottest day ever measured in France, all months combined," Météo-France said

Overnight temperatures are forecast to remain between 20C and 25C in many areas, with some urban centres unlikely to fall below 22C.

"It is likely that the heatwave will continue, and even worsen in some regions, during a large part of next week," the forecaster added.

La Chaîne Météo said the heatwave is likely to peak between Monday and Thursday, with temperatures locally reaching 42C to 43C in parts of western and central France. Numerous monthly heat records could be broken.

The heatwave is not expected to ease significantly before the end of the week - and then only in northern regions. 

For much of the south, forecasters say there is still no clear end in sight.

What does a red heatwave alert mean?

A red heatwave alert (vigilance rouge) is the highest level in France's weather warning system and used for extreme situations that pose a threat to the wider population, not only vulnerable people.

The current red alerts in 35 departments affect an estimated 26 million people.

Authorities warn that everyone can be affected by extreme heat, including healthy adults. 

However, the risks are particularly high for elderly people, those with disabilities, chronic illnesses or mental health conditions, people taking regular medication, outdoor workers and athletes. 

Children also require special attention.

During a red alert, people are advised to drink water regularly, continue eating normally and cool themselves frequently using showers, baths, damp cloths or water sprays.

People should avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day and, if they must leave home, wear light clothing and a hat. Physical exercise and strenuous activity should be limited.

Homes should be kept cool by closing shutters, curtains and windows during the day and ventilating rooms overnight when temperatures fall.

Authorities also encourage people to check on elderly, sick or isolated neighbours and relatives and help them access cooler environments where possible.

People experiencing heat-related illness, confusion or unusual behaviour should seek medical advice. Municipal authorities can also provide assistance to vulnerable residents.

Red heatwave alerts are often accompanied by increased wildfire risks, with officials urging people to avoid activities that could cause sparks or start fires.

Elderly, isolated, disabled or otherwise vulnerable residents can sign up to their commune's confidential register of vulnerable people, usually managed by the mairie or local CCAS (Centre Communal d'Action Sociale).

The free service allows local authorities to contact residents during extreme weather events, including heatwaves, to check on their wellbeing and provide assistance if needed. 

The register was created after the deadly 2003 heatwave and is a legal requirement for communes.

A free national helpline Canicule Info Service is also available from 09:00 - 19:00 on 0800 06 66 66.

Events disrupted across France

The extreme temperatures have already disrupted events linked to the Fête de la Musique, held nationwide on Sunday.

Several towns, including Auch, Châteauroux and Nanterre, cancelled planned outdoor concerts. 

In Gironde, authorities postponed festivities until 19:00 and banned other outdoor sporting, cultural and festive events during the day.

Other major cities, including Paris, Lyon and Strasbourg, chose to maintain celebrations while introducing additional safety measures.

In Paris and the surrounding area, 4,800 police officers and gendarmes and 2,500 firefighters were deployed for the event. 

Processions along the lower Seine riverbanks were banned due to safety concerns linked to the heat and large crowds.

Health authorities are continuing to advise people to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day and check regularly on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.