France: Heatwave forecast to persist over much of the country through at least June 19 /update 1

Event

Forecast models indicate that a heatwave will persist across most of France through at least June 19. High temperatures spread from southwestern regions to the Rhone Valley June 15, with maximum temperatures of 35-38 C (95-100 F) recorded in these areas. Highs of 35-39 C (95-102) are expected across these regions June 16, and temperatures will also begin to rise in the north and east. The heat will continue to spread June 17 before becoming widespread across much of the country June 18. The highest temperatures will be concentrated in the south and west, where over 40 C (104 F) is possible; however, temperatures above 35 C (95 F) are expected across most of the country June 18. Temperatures could exceed records for the time of year in some places June 17-18. Storms from the Atlantic will approach the west coast June 19, bringing an end to the excessive heat for much of the country. High temperatures will likely linger in the east through at least the end of June 19.

As of June 16, Meteo France has issued the following weather warnings across France:

• Red heatwave warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Charente, Charente-Maritime, Deux-Sevres, Gironde, Landes, Lot-et-Garonne, and Vienne departments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region; Gers, Haute Garonne, Tarn, and Tarn-et-Garonne departments in Occitanie Region; and Vendee Department in Pays de la Loire Region.

• Orange heatwave warnings: Ardeche, Cantal, Drome, Haute Loire, and Puy-de-Dome departments in Auvergne-Rhine-Alpes Region; Ille-et-Vilaine and Morbihan departments in Brittany Region; Cher, Indre, Inde-et-Loire, and Loir-et-Cher departments in Centre-Val de Loire Region; Correze, Creuse, Dordogne, Haute-Vienne, and Pyrenees-Atlantiques departments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region; Ariege, Aude, Aveyron, Hautes-Pyrenees, and Lot departments in Occitanie Region; and Loire-Atlantique, Maine-et-Loire, Mayenne, and Sarthe departments in Pays de la Loire Region.

• Yellow heatwave warnings: Allier, Isere, Loire, and Rhone departments in Auvergne-Rhine-Alpes Region; Cote-d'Or, Jura, Nievre, Saone-et-Loire, and Yonne departments in Bourgogne-Franche-Comte Region; Cotes-d'Armor and Finistere departments in Brittany Region; Eure-et-Loire and Loiret departments in Centre-Val de Loire Region; Aube and Haute-Marne departments in Grand Est Region; Aisne, Nord, Oise, Pas-de-Calais, and Somme departments in Hauts-de-France region; Essone, Paris, Seine-et-Marne, Val-d'Oise, and Yvelines departments in Ile-de-France Region; Calvados, Eure, Manche, Orne, and Seine-Maritime departments in Normandy Region; Gard, Herault, Lozere, and Pyrenees-Orientales departments in Occitanie Region; and Vaucluse Department in provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur Region.

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for additional wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers being hospitalized for dehydration.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on engines, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating; drink water that is bottled or has been boiled. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

Meteo France