France heatwave keeps 26 million under red alert as temperatures soar

Around 26 million people in France remain under a red‑alert heatwave warning as maximum temperatures reach 38‑40 °C across much of the country. The third intense heat episode of the summer has prompted Météo‑France to maintain red alerts in 37 departments while 58 others stay at orange level.

Authorities have imposed strict water‑use restrictions, including bans on private car washing, irrigation of large volumes, and watering of public and private vegetation during peak hours. The prefectures of Tarn‑et‑Garonne, Gers and other regions have ordered the closure of non‑essential water withdrawals and limited irrigation to one day per week, escalating if conditions persist.

The heat has driven severe secondary impacts: more than 32 000 ha of forest have burned since the start of the year, three nuclear reactors were shut down, and high‑speed rail services between Paris and Lyon faced disruptions due to fires and track‑side overheating. Record nightly temperatures were observed in Centre‑Val de Loire, with minima above 20 °C.

Analysts warn that the pattern of successive heatwaves may continue, raising the possibility of another wave later this month. Regional officials continue to urge vigilance for vulnerable populations and to enforce the temporary restrictions aimed at preserving water supplies and limiting fire risk.