France Braces for Extreme Heatwave as Temperatures Reach 40°C

France is facing its second heatwave of the year, with temperatures forecast to approach 40 degrees Celsius in some regions, including Paris, by Sunday or Monday. The national meteorological service has issued an orange alert—the second-highest warning level—for a quarter of the country. Local authorities are urging residents to drink plenty of water and exercise caution.

How is the heatwave affecting French transport?

Railway operator SNCF canceled 71 long-distance trains between Thursday and Monday. The company stated these cancellations are necessary to prevent potential air conditioning problems caused by the extreme heat.

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Did You Know? In June of last year, approximately 2,200 schools were closed across France due to a heatwave.

Why are schools adjusting schedules?

Many school buildings across the country are poorly equipped to handle extreme heat, according to available reports. Documents reviewed by AFP, trade unions, and academic institutions indicate that several schools began adjusting class schedules on Thursday afternoon.

In Paris, about 10 high schools have already modified their schedules for Thursday and Friday. In the Loire Valley, Mayor Emmanuel Deney stated he would not hesitate to close 58 educational institutions if temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the operational disruptions in transport and education highlight a critical gap between current infrastructure capabilities and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. The decision to preemptively cancel trains and modify school hours suggests a shift toward risk mitigation to avoid total system failure during peak temperatures.

What factors are driving these temperature spikes?

The summer solstice occurs this Sunday, marking the longest day of the year. The national meteorological service indicates that the increase in sunlight hours will further intensify the temperature rise.

Heatwave: SNCF cancels dozens of trains due to high temperatures

French meteorologists and scientists attribute the trend of more frequent, wider, and more intense heatwaves in Europe and France to climate change. This follows an unusually hot May, during which heat records were broken in half of the country.

In response to the heat, swimming has been permitted in the Canal Saint-Martin in eastern Paris since Wednesday, provided swimmers are under lifeguard supervision.

What may happen next?

Temperatures could peak on Sunday or Monday, which may lead to further school closures in the Loire Valley and other regions. If the heat persists into next week, as the national meteorological service warns, additional transport disruptions or public health alerts could be likely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which parts of France are under the orange alert?
A quarter of the country, including the capital city of Paris, is currently under the orange warning.

Why did SNCF cancel long-distance trains?
SNCF canceled 71 trains to prevent possible air conditioning problems related to the high temperatures.

What is the expected temperature peak?
Temperatures are expected to approach 40 degrees Celsius in certain regions, including Paris, specifically around Sunday or Monday.

How should cities prepare infrastructure to handle more frequent extreme heat events?