Climatologist Christophe Cassou: 'This heatwave is an unprecedented event, with about a one-in-1,000 chance of occurring in a given year'
France is currently experiencing an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C. This event has prompted Météo France to issue orange heatwave alerts for several departments, marking the earliest activation of this alert system in the year. Climatologist Christophe Cassou emphasizes the need for urgent action on greenhouse gas emissions in light of this extreme weather phenomenon.
- ▪Temperatures in France have reached 32 to 36°C, significantly above seasonal norms.
- ▪Eight western departments are under orange heatwave alert due to health risks associated with the heat.
- ▪This heatwave is notable for its intensity, early arrival, and duration of about 10 days.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
A group of children fill a water bottle at a fountain in Parc des Chantiers, Nantes, on March 25, 2026. JÉRÉMIE LUSSEAU FOR LE MONDE The heatwave affecting France continues to intensify. On Monday, May 25, temperatures reached 32 to 35°C across most of the country, with peaks of 36°C in the west. The Météo France weather service placed eight western departments under orange heatwave alert for Tuesday, indicating intense heat that could pose health risks. On Monday, 18 departments in the west and the Paris region were under yellow alert. This is the first time this alert system has been activated so early in the year.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Le Monde (EN).
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Le Monde (EN)
