France Faces Widespread Heatwave as Over Half the Country Enters Red Alerts

Mon Jun 22 2026 18:42:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

France confronts scorching temperatures, with 49 of 96 regions in red heat alerts, schools closed, and an alcohol ban in a national music festival.

France now has 49 of 96 regions under a red heat alert as the heatwave intensifies, with temperatures expected to breach 40°C across western France. The French Ministry of Education has shut 845 schools and allowed early finishes at 1,800 others. An alcohol ban was imposed during the Fête de la Musique amid these extreme conditions. Health officials warn of increased risk and advise vigilance. Train services are being curtailed to protect vulnerable passengers.

France Faces Widespread Heatwave as Over Half the Country Enters Red Alerts

The French government has issued a red heat alert for 49 of its 96 administrative regions in response to a rapidly intensifying heatwave. Meteorologists from Météo-France predict daytime highs above 40 °C (104 °F) across western France, with Bordeaux expected to reach 43 °C.

Over 845 schools nationwide were shut for the day, while 1,800 others allowed students to finish classes early, according to the Ministry of Education. This measures aim to reduce daytime heat exposure for schoolchildren.

The extreme heat also prompted a temporary ban on alcohol sales during the annual Fête de la Musique, a nationwide street‑music festival that usually attracts large crowds. The ban was enforced as part of a broader strategy to mitigate public health risks during the heatwave.

Health Minister Stéphanie Rist urged citizens—especially the elderly—to monitor the condition of neighbours and relatives. “Many of our fellow citizens will suffer during the hot weather,” she said, emphasising the need for community vigilance.

Transport officials responded by urging vulnerable commuters to avoid or delay train travel. The national railway operator SNCF reduced services on several lines in Paris and advised passengers to consider alternate routes. Belgium’s national train operator also cut peak‑hour services for Monday and Tuesday.

Experts predict the heatwave will be “widespread, long‑lasting and intense” with temperatures not expected to fall until the end of the week. The forecast also anticipates record high temperatures across Europe, with Madrid expected to hit 39 °C and Rome 37 °C.

The French heat alert system—colour‑coded from green to red—helps authorities manage emergencies and guide the public on precautionary measures. While the emergency measures aim to safeguard public health, the economic and social impacts of such severe weather continue to be closely monitored by policy makers and neighbourhoods alike.