France Braces for Weekend Heatwave, Two Departments on Orange Alert

France is set to experience a new heatwave this weekend, prompting authorities to issue an orange alert for heat in the Hérault and Pyrénées-Orientales departments. The forecast predicts a return to summer-like conditions with clear skies and dry weather across the country, particularly impacting the first wave of summer vacationers.

According to La Chaîne Météo, the Mistral and Tramontane winds will blow moderately in the Southeast, accompanied by already marked heat. Localized thunderstorms are possible in the Southern Alps. Météo France forecasts that temperatures could locally reach 37°C to 38°C in the affected departments. Eight other southern and southeastern departments will be on yellow heat alert.

Temperatures across the country will range from 12°C in the Ardennes to 24°C near the Mediterranean. However, the South and Southeast will see temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. On Sunday, the heat is expected to intensify further, extending westward towards the Garonne valley, where temperatures could reach 35°C. The persistent wind near the Mediterranean coast maintains a high risk of fires.