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WEATHER

What does France’s ‘red’ heatwave warning mean?

As France sizzles under an intense heatwave, four départements have been placed under a 'red' weather alert on Tuesday by Météo France - but what does this mean for people living in or visiting those areas?

What does France's 'red' heatwave warning mean?
Photo by Loic VENANCE / AFP

Large parts of France remain on orange alert for high temperatures, but on Tuesday four départements will be placed under the rarely-used red alert, the highest alert level on Météo France’s system.

They are; Drôme, Rhône, Ardèche and Haute-Loire, and the alert covers Tuesday, August 22nd.

The red alert means “absolute vigilance” is required because “dangerous” weather phenomenon with “exceptional intensity” are forecast.

It can be used for all types of weather events, most commonly for storms or flooding.

It is rare that a red alert is issued for heat – the first ever red heat alert was issued in 2019 during the exceptional heatwave that saw temperature records shatter across France, and since then has only be issued a handful of times.

Météo France says that a red alert for heat means that “all of us are threatened, even healthy people”.

It adds: “The danger is greater for seniors, people with chronic illness or mental health issues, people who take regular medication and people who are isolated.”

Those who work outside are told to take care and watch out for the signs of heat stroke, which include: fever over 40C, hot, red and dry skin, headaches, nausea, drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion and convulsions.

Parents are advised to closely observe their children.

Météo France also issues the following advice.

  •  In case of discomfort or behavioural problems, call a doctor.
  • If you need help call your local town hall.
  •  If you have elderly, chronically ill or isolated people in your life, check in with them or visit them twice a day. Accompany them to a cool place.
  • During the day close shutters, curtains and windows. Ventilate at night.
  • Use fan and/or air conditioning if available. Otherwise try to go to a cool or air-conditioned place (such as a supermarket or cinema) for two to three hours a day.
  • Wet your body several times a day with a mist, a washcloth or by taking showers or baths.
  • Adults and children: drink plenty of water, the elderly: drink 1.5L of water per day and eat normally.
  • Do not go out during the hottest hours (11am-9pm).
  • If you have to go out wear a hat and light clothing.
  • Limit your physical activities.

The declaration of a red alert also gives local authorities the power to cancel events if they judge the risk is too great. Even if they decide not to, sometimes event organisers will cancel if a red alert is declared.

If you have plans to attend a concert, festival or other large event – check beforehand that it is still going ahead as planned. 

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ESSENTIAL FRANCE

Ticks, tax declarations and philosophy: 6 essential articles for life in France

From a health warning about 'giant ticks' to swimming in French lakes, via doing your taxes and then watching the Euros on TV - with a little bit of philosophy thrown in here - here are 6 essential articles for life in France.

Ticks, tax declarations and philosophy: 6 essential articles for life in France

The French health authority has issued a warning about a species of ‘giant tick’ that is now present in southern France. Normal ticks are endemic across the country and can carry some significant health risks, as well as necessitating the painful and nasty process of digging them out of your flesh (or the flesh of your kids/ pets).

What to know about ticks in France and how to avoid them

Horrifying pictures of blisters the size of golf balls on the legs of two unfortunate ‘wild swimming’ fans made headlines in France this week. So is it safe to swim in France’s many picturesque lakes?

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It’s nearly deadline time for the 2024 property tax declaration in France – and if you own property here (even if you live in another country) this is something that you are likely to need to know about.

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A new law went into effect this week that allows pharmacists to dispense antibiotics without prescription in certain cases. Most people will still need a prescription, however, so we’re taking a look at how you can get that if you’re just visiting France or you are not yet registered in the French health system. 

Do I need a prescription for antibiotics in France?

French lycée pupils are into the exam season – commiserations to any parents living with a stressed-out teen – and all of the Bac candidates will be taking a philosophy exam. The subject has been a compulsory part of French schooling since the days of Napoleon.

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(And one extra)

As you may have noticed, there is an election on in France. You can get all the latest election news HERE and you can also sign up to receive by email our bi-weekly election breakdown (more info here). We’re also taking a look at what it would really mean for foreigners in France if the far-right do end up in power.

Meanwhile our Talking France podcast is also discussing all things election related. Listen here or on the link below

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