Intense heatwave: 72 French departments on orange alert
France is currently experiencing a period of exceptional heat. This Thursday, July 9, 2026, Météo-France placed 72 departments on orange alert. This heatwave extends across a large part of the territory, affecting millions of residents from the north to the south of the country.
Weather forecasts announce extremely high temperatures for the day. In several regions, the thermometer is expected to approach 40°C during the afternoon. Nights also remain very warm, preventing homes from cooling down naturally and making the situation difficult for vulnerable individuals.
This heatwave is described as a veritable "vise" tightening its grip on the country. Authorities are concerned about the intensity and duration of this heatwave episode. The orange alert means that citizens must be very attentive and limit physical exertion, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
To cope with this situation, the government is reiterating essential safety measures. It is advised to drink water regularly, close shutters during the day, and stay in cool places. It is also important to check on elderly or isolated people in your circle.
For now, vigilance remains in place for the coming days across a large part of France. Health services are mobilized to respond to any potential heat-related emergencies. The French public is encouraged to follow updates on official websites to stay informed about the end of this alert.