France: Heatwave Leads to National Disaster

Paris – 06/25/2026: France has been experiencing a nationwide heatwave of extraordinary intensity since June 16, 2026. Météo-France has issued an orange heat warning for 90 departments, affecting 91% of the population. 49 of these departments are even classified at the highest alert level, the red heat warning, covering 52% of the population.

Daytime temperatures reach peak values between 40 and 42 °C (104 to 107.6 °F), while nighttime lows range between 20 and 25 °C (68 to 77 °F), resulting in tropical nights, especially in urban areas. These extreme conditions have already led to several deaths and require drastic measures.

In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu convened an interministerial crisis unit on June 20, 2026, to coordinate the situation. The meeting included the Ministers of the Interior, Defense, Labor, Environment, Agriculture, Education, Culture, Health, Urban Development, Higher Education, Sports, and Transport.

Hospitals have activated their emergency plans to prepare for the rising number of patients suffering from heat-related illnesses. Between June 18 and 21, daily emergency room visits linked to heat damage ranged from 300 to 450. On June 22, the number of emergency visits rose to over 650, matching or even surpassing the historical peaks of summers 2019 and 2025.

Given the overload of emergency services and the increasing number of victims, Prime Minister Lecornu described the situation as a “national disaster.” The highest alert level was declared in 35 departments, and measures such as banning the sale of alcohol in public places were implemented.

The government has also set three priorities to address the heatwave:

1. Hospitals: Activation of an emergency plan to support security services and treat patients in emergency departments.

2. Public Safety: Strengthening measures to prevent wildfires and other heat-related emergencies.

3. Public Outreach: Educating the population about the risks of the heatwave and necessary precautionary measures.

The current heatwave recalls the devastating heatwave of 2003, which caused about 15,000 deaths in France. The government emphasizes the need to act early in order to avoid similar impacts.

In view of the ongoing extreme temperatures, the population is urgently advised to take precautions, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. It is recommended to avoid sun exposure, drink plenty of fluids, and use cooling measures.