Second Heatwave Hits France as Authorities Place Many Regions Under Orange Alert

France’s meteorological service has warned of an intense heatwave affecting the country on Saturday and Sunday, with temperatures expected to reach up to 40°C in some areas.

According to France 24, authorities have placed nearly two-thirds of the country’s departments under an orange weather alert on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

The French weather agency indicated that the expected intensification of the heatwave could lead to several departments being placed under the highest level of alert on Sunday.

Meteorologists warned that the heatwave is expected to be “widespread, long-lasting, and severe,” adding that it is likely to peak between Sunday and Tuesday. Nearly two-thirds of France’s population are expected to be affected by this extreme heat event.