France Mobilizes Crisis Cell as Heat Wave Nears 40°C

Overview

• The government activated a crisis cell on Friday as meteorologists warned the heat wave will peak on Sunday with daytime highs around 39–40°C and some departments moving to red alert.
• Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu ordered a preventive ban on alcohol at public events in red departments, a measure that covers 35 departments and affects roughly 26 million residents.
• Public services have been altered: SNCF cancelled dozens of regional trains, many schools shortened or suspended classes and some exams were postponed to limit travel and heat exposure.
• Health services confirmed at least one heat-related death in Ermont and warned that the elderly and vulnerable face the greatest risk while alcohol increases dehydration and emergency admissions.
• Authorities and scientists stress the heat comes after France’s warmest spring on record, prompting short-term adaptations such as supervised bathing in parts of Canal Saint‑Martin and raising concerns about recurring climate-driven extremes and economic strain on services.