France Faces Intense Heat Wave: Red Alerts Cover Over Half the Nation

Mon Jun 22 2026 13:31:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A massive heat wave grips France, with half its regions on red alert, schools closed and festivals cancelled, as experts warn of dangerous temperatures.

France is under the grip of a sudden heat burst, with 49 of 96 regions alarmed in a red alert and schools shutting down en masse. Record temperatures are projected in western areas, with Bordeaux expected to hit 43 °C. The public health sector has urged citizens to monitor vulnerable neighbours, and the rail network has curtailed services for safety. Meanwhile, European capitals such as Madrid and Rome face their own scorching highs.

France Faces Intense Heat Wave: Red Alerts Cover Over Half the Nation

A sudden surge in temperatures has triggered a red heat alert across 49 of France’s 96 regions, a move that signals the highest level of warning and the need for immediate public preparation.

In the western part of the country, temperatures are expected to rise beyond 40 °C, and officials predict an astonishing 43 °C in Bordeaux on Monday, according to Météo‑France forecasts.

The Ministry of Education has taken decisive action: 845 schools have been closed for the day and an additional 1,800 are giving students the option to leave early, aiming to reduce exposure during peak heat.

The national music festival, Fête de la Musique, faced an unforeseen twist when an alcohol ban was introduced to cope with the extreme temperatures that hit 40 °C over the preceding weekend, keeping large crowds safe.

Tragically, in the southwestern Gironde region authorities reported three deaths — aged between 80 and 95 — attributed to the intense heat, underscoring the severity of the conditions.

Health Minister Stéphanie Rist highlighted on TV1 Info that many citizens will likely suffer, urging people to monitor the health of elderly relatives and neighbors, especially in the heat‑prone zones.

Public transportation has also been affected: SNCF has advised vulnerable passengers to avoid or postpone train journeys while Paris trains experienced reduced services Monday. The Belgian operator, Souche, likewise cancelled peak‑hour services for Monday and Tuesday.

Beyond France, the EU’s heatwave is reaching record highs, with Madrid predicted to reach 39 °C and Rome around 37 °C, illustrating a continental pattern of extreme heat.

Officials warn that the heatwave will remain intense, widespread and long‑lasting, with no noticeable temperature decline until the week’s end, demanding continued vigilance from all citizens.