France Heatwave Shifts South; Southwest Faces Severe Thunderstorms

France is bracing for continued heatwave conditions, with orange vigilance for high temperatures remaining in effect for the Southeast region. However, relief is in sight for other parts of the country, as western areas and the Île-de-France region are expected to transition to yellow or green vigilance levels by Sunday.

The easing of heat in the Paris region has prompted authorities to lift emergency measures aimed at reducing ozone pollution. Météo-France announced that the orange vigilance would be lifted in Lorraine, Alsace, and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté by Saturday evening, with the exception of Saône-et-Loire and Jura.

Despite the cooling trend elsewhere, the Southeast is expected to endure heatwave conditions until mid-week. Meanwhile, the Southwest faces a different threat: severe thunderstorms are forecast for Saturday afternoon. These storms could bring hail and wind gusts reaching up to 90 km/h, with localized heavy rainfall. While the risk of an orange vigilance for storms is considered low, forecasters are monitoring the situation closely.