France issues red alert as historic heatwave grips 72 departments
In total, around 63.5 million people are currently under either red or orange heat alerts, as soaring temperatures push the nation into one of its most extreme weather episodes in recent history.
KATHMANDU: France’s national meteorological agency, Météo-France, has issued a red alert for extreme heat across 72 departments, effective from Thursday midday, as a severe heatwave continues to sweep the country.
The country has been under an intense heatwave for the past nine days, with forecasters warning that more than 51 million people—over three-quarters of France’s population—will be directly affected by the highest level of heat warning.
In total, around 63.5 million people are currently under either red or orange heat alerts, as soaring temperatures push the nation into one of its most extreme weather episodes in recent history.
Météo-France confirmed that France has recorded its hottest-ever day based on the national thermal index, which averages daytime and nighttime temperatures across 30 reference stations.
Both Tuesday and Wednesday have now been officially registered as the hottest days in the country’s recorded history.
The national thermal indicator reached 30°C, surpassing the previous record of 29.4°C set in July 2019 and August 2003.
Authorities say there are no immediate signs of relief, with the heatwave expected to persist, continuing to disrupt daily life.
Residents across the country report increasing difficulties due to scorching temperatures and hot winds, severely affecting routine activities and public health conditions.
