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As record-shattering temperatures sweep across southern and western Europe, France is facing an unprecedented heat emergency. With 16 French regions under red alert, including Paris, and another 68 on orange, the scale of the crisis is without precedent.
Widespread Heat Emergency
- On Monday, 84 of France’s 96 departments were placed under orange alerts by Météo-France—a situation never seen before.
- The red alert zones, effective from midday Tuesday, include the entire Île‑de‑France region (Paris and surroundings) .
- French Ecology Minister Agnès Pannier‑Runacher described the scenario as “unprecedented”.
- Nearly 200 schools have been fully or partially closed, while local authorities adapt working hours to protect citizens.
Heatwave Across Europe
- Spain and Portugal recorded record June temperatures: 46 °C in El Granado (Spain) and 46.6 °C in Mora (Portugal).
- Italy has placed 21 cities, including Rome and Milan, under red alert, with a surge in heat-stroke cases.
- Germany anticipates temperatures nearing 38 °C, prompting water use limits and workplace heat protections.
- The UK could hit low-30 °C, affecting events like Wimbledon and outdoor workers.
Rising Fire Risk & Health Warnings
- Southern France saw its first major forest fire of the season, burning some 400 hectares and prompting evacuations.
- Turkey evacuated over 50,000 residents due to wildfires in Izmir and Manisa.
- Heatwaves in Italy and neighbouring countries have increased hospital admissions; Tuscany, for example, reported a 20% rise.
- Health officials across Europe urge staying indoors, hydrating, and checking on vulnerable individuals.
Heat Dome, Climate Change & Long-Term Impact
- A persistent heat dome is trapping scorching air over Europe, compounded by marine heat in the Mediterranean, devastating glaciers at high altitudes.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned at the Seville Development Conference: “Extreme heat is no longer a rare event—it has become the new normal.”.
- Scientists estimate this cycle of extreme heat could result in tens of thousands of additional deaths annually by century’s end.
What to Expect & How to Stay Safe
- The peak of the heatwave is projected for mid-week, with some relief from cold fronts expected later.
- Residents are advised to stay indoors during midday, hydrate frequently, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and use cooling centers or public pools where available .
- Employers across Europe—especially in France and Germany—are urged to implement heat protection rules in workplaces .
Key Takeaways
- France faces a historic heatwave, with record-breaking alerts and widespread disruptions.
- Europe is on high alert: intense heat, wildfires, health emergencies and economic impacts are spreading.
- This heatwave reflects a new climate reality: heatwaves are becoming more frequent, fierce, and lethal.
- Individual and systemic action is critical: stay safe, and pressure governments for climate adaptation and emissions reductions.
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