Anticipated highest temperature surge in France on August 15th
France Braces for Continued Heatwave, Urges Caution
France is expected to face another round of intense heatwave conditions, with high-pressure air set to return to the West and South by Friday. The ongoing heatwave, which has been ongoing since mid-August, has already seen peak temperatures frequently reaching or exceeding 40°C in southern and central France.
According to meteorologist Patrick Galois, who made these predictions during a press conference on Monday, August 11, the heatwave is predicted to persist through at least mid-August, with no immediate end in sight. Temperatures are expected to remain high, especially in southern regions like Hérault, Aude, and Var, where peaks around 42°C are anticipated. The heat could extend even further north and east over Europe subsequently.
As the heatwave continues, authorities are urging vulnerable individuals to take precautions. For those at risk during heatwaves, key precautions include staying hydrated, avoiding direct exposure to the sun during peak heat hours, staying in cool or air-conditioned environments, checking on elderly or at-risk neighbors regularly, and following local health guidelines related to heat alerts. Authorities often issue warnings and recommend limiting outdoor activities, using light clothing, and taking measures to prevent heat strokes and dehydration.
Monday, in particular, has been identified as a high-risk day. Health Minister Yannick Neuder has warned that the risk is particularly for vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. To help individuals and their loved ones navigate the heatwave, the Ministry of Health has activated a heatwave information hotline, Canicule info service, at 0 800 06 66 66.
In response to the extreme heat, outdoor activities are banned in the Landes from 2pm to 8pm on Monday and from 10am to 8pm on Tuesday. This ban includes outdoor events and sporting events in non-air-conditioned closed facilities.
A brief respite from the heat is expected in the form of a thunderstorm passing through the country from West to East between Wednesday and Thursday. However, another heatwave is predicted for the weekend of August 15.
For those interested in live coverage of these weather events, various news outlets are providing updates. It is crucial for everyone to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to stay safe during this ongoing heatwave.
