France’s Second Heatwave 2026: France is facing its second heatwave of 2026, with temperatures expected to climb close to 40°C in several parts of the country over the coming days. The extreme weather has prompted authorities to issue orange alerts and caused disruptions to schools and rail services, while many public spaces and businesses continue to operate.
Although astronomical summer officially begins on Sunday, France has already experienced an unusually hot year. An earlier heatwave in May broke temperature records across nearly half the country.
France’s Second Heatwave 2026: Orange Alerts in Many Places Across Parts of France
Around a quarter of France, including Paris, has been placed under an orange weather alert, the second-highest warning level. Authorities have urged residents to be “very cautious” and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
According to the national weather agency Meteo-France, the heatwave is expected to continue into next week. Temperatures are forecast to peak on Sunday or Monday, with several regions, including the capital, expected to see temperatures approach 40°C. The arrival of the summer solstice on Sunday, the longest day of the year, is also expected to contribute to rising temperatures due to extended hours of sunshine.
What’s Closed? Schools Face Disruptions
Local officials across France are monitoring conditions as many school buildings are not equipped to handle extreme heat. Several schools announced timetable changes beginning Thursday afternoon, according to academic authorities and unions. In Paris, about 10 middle schools have already adjusted arrangements for Thursday and Friday.
Some mayors are also considering temporary closures if temperatures rise further. In Tours, located in the Loire Valley, Mayor Emmanuel Denis said he would shut schools if the mercury reached dangerous levels.
“At 40 degrees, I’ll close the schools,” he said. France faced similar disruptions during a heatwave in June last year, when approximately 2,200 schools across the country were closed.
France’s Second Heatwave 2026: Train Services Affected in France
France’s national rail operator SNCF announced the cancellation of 71 long-distance trains between Thursday and Monday. The company said the move was intended to “prevent potential air-conditioning failures linked to very high temperatures”. Passengers are being advised to check schedules and prepare for possible travel disruptions during the heatwave.
France’s Second Heatwave 2026: What’s Open?
Despite the intense weather, most businesses, banks, and private institutions remain open. There has been no nationwide shutdown order. Authorities in Paris have also opened additional cooling options. Swimming has been allowed since Wednesday in the Canal Saint-Martin in eastern Paris, with lifeguards supervising the area. “Take advantage of it, and stay safe in the heat,” mayor Emmanuel Gregoire said on X while sharing photos of residents enjoying the water.
Climate Experts Warn Heatwaves Are Becoming More Frequent
Scientists say Europe is witnessing increasingly severe and frequent heatwaves because of climate change. Matthieu Sorel, a climatologist at Meteo-France, said France is experiencing “heatwaves that are increasingly frequent, more widespread and more intense — a clear sign of climate change.”
Experts warn that rising global temperatures are making extreme weather events more common across Europe, increasing the risk of prolonged periods of intense heat.
