France is experiencing a severe heat wave, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in many areas and unusually warm nights affecting much of the country. The national weather service, Météo France, said heat-wave conditions are expected to continue through the end of the week.

Several cities recorded their hottest nights for June, including Paris, where temperatures did not fall below 24.2°C. Authorities warned that even higher nighttime temperatures could occur as the heat persists.

Without widespread air conditioning, schools, transportation services, and the public are adapting to extreme conditions. Health experts have warned of increased risks from heat-related illnesses, while authorities have taken measures to protect residents.

Climate experts link the growing frequency of extreme heat events to human-caused climate change. More regions in France and the UK have issued extreme heat warnings, with temperatures expected to reach record levels.

Date: June 22, 2026
Source: Mongabay / Associated Press