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France Braces for Fourth Heatwave as Temperatures Soar to 42°C

Published July 27, 2026 at 4:32 PM UTC

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France is preparing for its fourth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures expected to reach up to 42°C in several regions starting Tuesday, July 28. The extreme heat, announced by Météo-France, comes as the country continues to battle devastating wildfires in the south, particularly in the Gironde and Var departments. More than 20,000 hectares of land have already burned this summer, and the new heatwave threatens to worsen the situation. Health authorities have issued warnings for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions. The government has activated its national heatwave plan, opening cooling centers and extending hotline services. The previous three heatwaves have already strained emergency services and caused dozens of deaths. This latest event is expected to last at least three days, with peak temperatures on Wednesday and Thursday. Meteorologists point to a blocking high-pressure system pulling hot air from North Africa. The regions most affected include Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, and Occitanie. Officials urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak hours, and check on neighbors. The heatwave also raises concerns about energy supply, as increased air conditioning use may strain the grid. Wildfire prevention patrols have been stepped up, and firefighters are on high alert.