Heatwave to Bring 40°C Temperatures Across France and Italy This Weekend

A new heatwave is forecast to bring temperatures of 40°C or higher across parts of France and Italy this weekend, with the extreme heat expected to persist for at least 10 days. In France, the heatwave is intensifying and spreading, with the Pyrénées-Orientales region still dealing with an active wildfire, though residents of nine communes were allowed to return home on Thursday evening. Italian meteorologist Sabina Angeloni of ItaliaMeteo notes that the third phase of the heatwave has not formally begun yet, but hot air arriving from Africa will drive temperatures up. The heatwave is expected to last until at least July 14 in France, according to Libération. Authorities are urging caution as the prolonged heat poses health risks and exacerbates fire conditions.

Global Impact

The heatwave underscores the growing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events linked to climate change, with regional economic impacts on agriculture, energy, and insurance. Wildfires in southern France highlight the immediate environmental and social costs, including evacuations and property damage.