France on Alert as Heatwave Hits 73 Departments

Heatwave Hits 73 Departments

A Hot Weekend for Millions

This Sunday, June 29, 2025, France is baking under an intense heatwave. Météo-France has issued orange-level heat alerts for 73 departments, covering much of the country’s east, south, and southwest. Temperatures have soared well above 35°C (95°F) in many places—and they’re not expected to cool down anytime soon.

For millions of people, this means another day of scorching sun, dry air, and a strong warning to stay inside, stay cool, and stay safe.

Where It’s Hitting the Hardest

The orange alert now includes a wide stretch of the country, especially:

• Southeast regions like Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and Occitanie
• Southwest areas such as Nouvelle-Aquitaine
• Eastern and central zones, including parts of Bourgogne and Grand Est

These regions are experiencing the brunt of the heatwave, with some areas expected to hit 38–40°C (100–104°F).

Heat Records Are Falling

On Saturday, several towns broke temperature records:

• Châteaumeillant (Cher) hit 39.9°C
• Carcassonne recorded 39.4°C
• Toulouse reached 37.9°C
• Even Paris saw 35°C, a rare high for June in the capital

Experts say this heatwave marks the 50th major event since 1947—and it’s coming earlier and stronger than ever.

Also Read : Maresca Speaks Out After 2‑Hour Club World Cup Delay

What You Should Do

Authorities are urging everyone to take the alert seriously:

• Drink water regularly—even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Stay indoors during the hottest hours (usually noon to 6 PM)
• Check on elderly neighbors, babies, and people with health conditions
• Use fans, AC, or cool showers to lower body temperature

Hospitals, schools, and care homes are also stepping up safety efforts as part of the national heatwave plan.

What’s Causing It?

This extreme heat is due to a Saharan air mass pushed up into France and held in place by a high-pressure weather system. this is effects for health and viral easily with eachothers. This same weather pattern is affecting other parts of Europe, too, with hotter, longer summers becoming more common due to climate change.

Final Thoughts: Be Safe, Stay Informed

As 73 departments across France face dangerous heat, this weekend is a clear reminder of how our climate is changing. While summer heat is nothing new, heatwaves like this are becoming more intense and more frequent.

Staying safe means staying informed. Keep checking Météo-France updates, look after your loved ones, and take the heat seriously. These events aren’t just uncomfortable they can be dangerous.