A short but intense heatwave is beginning today (Thursday, June 19) in south-west France, with temperatures in the next few days forecast to reach up to 38C in the shade and remain over 20C all night.
The current period of hot weather is being driven by a high-pressure system causing what forecasters describe as a “heat dome”- a compression effect that traps warm air over the country.
Maximum daytime temperatures are expected to climb steadily into the weekend.
State forecaster Météo France says the heat will peak on Saturday across the western half of the country, with temperatures then falling sharply on Sunday as oceanic air moves in from the Atlantic.
Thursday afternoon highs in the south-west are forecast to reach 37C in Agen and Cahors, 36C in Toulouse, Albi, Auch, Montauban and Pau, and 35C in Tarbes and Carcassonne.
Temperatures of 33C to 35C are also expected as far north as the Loire valley and as far west as Brittany, with Paris, Lyon and Rennes each forecast to reach 32C.
Night-time temperatures will stay above 20C in most of the country for the duration of the heatwave.
Such conditions prevent homes from cooling adequately and can pose risks to health, particularly for older or vulnerable people.
From Sunday, temperatures are expected to drop by around 10C in the west and north-west, offering some respite.
The south and east, however, may remain hot into the start of next week.
As of June 19, yellow-level canicule alerts have been issued in 39 departments across the west and south-west of France, as well as Brittany.
These may be extended or upgraded over the coming days as temperatures remain high.
Météo France only issues alerts up to 48 hours in advance, so weekend warnings will not appear until Friday at the earliest.
The heat thresholds vary by department, based on local averages and risk levels. When alerts are raised, local authorities can activate measures including support for care homes and checks on vulnerable individuals.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated,keep homes cool during the day, and check in regularly on vulnerable neighbours or family members.
