France is experiencing a historic heatwave: temperatures above 44 °C
23 june 2026 в 22:13
France is experiencing one of the strongest heatwaves in its history, with temperatures exceeding 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) in some regions of the country. The extreme weather has led to widespread health warnings, school closures, disruptions in the transportation system, and even the closure of the Eiffel Tower during the height of the heat.
According to French meteorologists, dozens of regions are under the highest heat warnings as temperatures continue to rise. In some cities, unprecedented nighttime temperatures have been recorded, providing no relief from the scorching daytime heat. This heat is part of a broader phenomenon of extreme weather affecting several European countries this summer.
Here’s what you need to know about the historic heat in France in 2026.
The previous record temperature in France was 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit), recorded in Verargues in southern France during a heatwave in June 2019. Meteorologists warn that the current heat in 2026 threatens to surpass this record.
On June 23, 2026, France recorded, according to multiple sources, the hottest day in its history, with temperatures reaching 44.3 degrees Celsius (111.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country, while in several major cities, temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Weather forecasts suggest that in some regions, temperatures could approach 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) at the peak of the heat.
As of June 23, authorities reported at least 40 heat-related deaths, many of which occurred due to drownings as people attempted to cool off in rivers, lakes, and other unguarded areas. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that most of the drowning victims are young people.
Additional reports have also documented heat-related deaths, including elderly individuals who faced complications in extreme temperatures, and two children found dead in a car in southeastern France.
Health experts warn that the official death toll may rise as the heat continues.
Forecasts suggest that the most intense phase of the heat will last at least until the middle of the week, with temperatures remaining above 40 degrees Celsius in some regions. Although temperatures may gradually decrease in some areas by the end of June, meteorologists caution that abnormally hot conditions could persist for an extended period.
Le Monde reports that the heat, which began in mid-June, may last more than two weeks, making it one of the longest and most severe climate events France has faced in recent years. Authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours
According to French meteorologists, dozens of regions are under the highest heat warnings as temperatures continue to rise. In some cities, unprecedented nighttime temperatures have been recorded, providing no relief from the scorching daytime heat. This heat is part of a broader phenomenon of extreme weather affecting several European countries this summer.
Here’s what you need to know about the historic heat in France in 2026.
The previous record temperature in France was 46 degrees Celsius (114.8 degrees Fahrenheit), recorded in Verargues in southern France during a heatwave in June 2019. Meteorologists warn that the current heat in 2026 threatens to surpass this record.
On June 23, 2026, France recorded, according to multiple sources, the hottest day in its history, with temperatures reaching 44.3 degrees Celsius (111.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in some parts of the country, while in several major cities, temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Weather forecasts suggest that in some regions, temperatures could approach 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) at the peak of the heat.
As of June 23, authorities reported at least 40 heat-related deaths, many of which occurred due to drownings as people attempted to cool off in rivers, lakes, and other unguarded areas. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that most of the drowning victims are young people.
Additional reports have also documented heat-related deaths, including elderly individuals who faced complications in extreme temperatures, and two children found dead in a car in southeastern France.
Health experts warn that the official death toll may rise as the heat continues.
Forecasts suggest that the most intense phase of the heat will last at least until the middle of the week, with temperatures remaining above 40 degrees Celsius in some regions. Although temperatures may gradually decrease in some areas by the end of June, meteorologists caution that abnormally hot conditions could persist for an extended period.
Le Monde reports that the heat, which began in mid-June, may last more than two weeks, making it one of the longest and most severe climate events France has faced in recent years. Authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours
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