France: Heatwave forecast to persist over eastern and southeastern regions through at least Aug. 15 /update 1

Forecast models indicate high temperatures will persist across eastern and southeastern France through at least Aug. 15. The heatwave that has affected much of the country in recent days is expected to move eastward Aug. 13-14. Temperatures of 34-37 C (93-99 F) are expected in the southeast, including Corsica, and around 30-34 C (86-93 F) with localized higher maximums across eastern regions Aug. 13.

As of Aug. 13, Meteo France has issued the following heatwave warnings across the country:

• Orange heatwave warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Ain, Drome, Haute-Savoie, Isere, Rhone, and Savoie departments in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes Region, across Corsica, and Alpes-Maritimes Department in Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur Region.

• Yellow heatwave warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.

Further orange heatwave warnings are in place for Corsica and Alpes-Maritimes Department Aug. 14, as well as yellow warnings across much of the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for 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.

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 vehicles, 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.