France expects a new strong heat wave with temperatures above 40°C

Paris – 15.06.2026: France faces a new, intense heat wave that is expected to have begun on June 13, 2026. It follows the earliest and strongest heat wave of May this year. Southern France will be particularly affected, with temperatures expected to exceed 35°C. In cities such as Toulouse and Bordeaux, temperatures could even reach 41–42°C. During the week, the heat will spread northward, so temperatures up to 39°C are possible in Paris by June 20.

The heat wave is caused by an anticyclone over Western Europe, which brings hot air masses from North Africa. In addition to France, high temperatures are also being observed in Spain, Italy, Germany, and Ireland. Experts point out that such early and intense heat waves may become more frequent due to climate change. They warn of an increased risk of further extreme heat, forest fires, and droughts by 2050 or 2100 if existing climate protection measures are not strengthened.

Particularly in the southern regions near the border with Spain, temperatures up to 40°C are expected. In the north, especially in Paris, maximum daytime temperatures during the weekend of June 20 may reach up to 39°C, while the seasonal average temperature is around 23°C. In addition, “tropical nights” are forecasted across the country, during which nighttime temperatures do not fall below 20°C. Such conditions make nighttime recovery difficult and increase health risks, especially for the elderly, children, and the chronically ill.

The heat wave coincides with the national exams for university entrants, adding additional stress to many students. Government measures include warnings about the high temperatures in several southern departments. The population is strongly advised to follow safety rules: drink plenty of fluids, stay in cool rooms, and avoid physical exertion especially during the hottest hours.

In the long term, experts recommend adaptation strategies that can mitigate the effects of the heat. These include greening cities, creating green roofs, and thermal renovation of buildings. These measures can help reduce the impact of intensifying heat periods and improve quality of life in affected regions.

In this extreme weather situation, Météo-France continues to call for caution. Authorities emphasize the importance of following medical service recommendations to prevent health problems. The coming week will show how well the population can adapt to the recurring heat and what consequences it will have for infrastructure and the environment.