France bakes under second heatwave in less than three weeks as 49 departments go on red alert

France is facing its second heatwave in less than three weeks, with 49 mainland departments placed under red alert on Monday and about 35 million people affected by the highest-level warning.

Météo-France said the episode was intensifying on June 22 and was likely to continue through the week. Forecasts pointed to temperatures above 40C in parts of western and central France, with highs around 43C in Bordeaux, 41C in Limoges, 40C in Toulouse and Tours, and 39C in Paris.

The scale of the alert shows how quickly conditions have worsened. France had already been through an earlier heatwave in the same period, and this second surge has pushed authorities to expand warnings and prepare for more disruption across schools, transport and public life.

Schools and daily life

The heat has already forced major changes in schools. More than 1,350 schools were reported closed or operating on adjusted schedules, while other coverage put the number of affected schools at roughly 2,600 once shortened hours and altered routines were included.

Officials urged people to drink water, avoid strenuous exertion and stay out of direct sun. Public-health guidance also included advice to avoid alcohol in public spaces, as authorities tried to reduce exposure during the hottest part of the day.

Prefectures and local authorities have also been adjusting schedules for outdoor events and workplace activity where possible. The disruption is likely to widen if temperatures stay near the forecast highs or if the red-alert map is extended.

Human toll and health risk

The heatwave is already being linked to deaths and other emergencies. Reports on Monday said two children were found dead in a car in Carpentras, three elderly people died near Bordeaux, and several drowning incidents were also reported.

Paris registered its hottest June night on record, leaving little overnight relief for residents already under heat stress. Health officials have warned that older people, young children, outdoor workers and anyone without access to cool indoor space face the greatest risk.

Hospitals and emergency services are expected to remain under pressure if the hot spell continues as forecast. The concern is not only heatstroke and dehydration, but also the strain that prolonged high temperatures place on people with existing medical conditions.

What officials are watching next

Météo-France said the heat would peak on June 22 before continuing through the week. One immediate question is whether the red-alert zone will expand, narrow or remain in place beyond Monday.

Officials are also watching for more concrete figures on school closures, transport interruptions and any broader restrictions tied to public events, drinking rules or outdoor work hours. Additional health updates will be closely monitored for heat-related deaths, drownings and signs of hospital strain.

The current episode is being compared with earlier severe French heatwaves because of its timing, intensity and scale. With the country already hit once in recent weeks, the latest surge has turned a familiar summer risk into a national public-safety issue.