Météo-France has issued a warning about an early and intense heatwave affecting France, with temperatures already reaching over 35°C locally in the southwest on Friday, May 22, 2026. The agency states that this heat episode is 'durable' and is expected to peak between Sunday, May 24, and Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
The heatwave is attributed to a high-pressure system over central Europe, drawing hot air from North Africa. Météo-France predicts that temperatures will remain high until at least the end of May, with some areas experiencing nighttime lows above 20°C.
Authorities have urged vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, to take precautions such as staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Local governments have activated heatwave plans, including opening cooling centers in some cities.
This event is notable for its early occurrence in the year, as such intense heat typically arrives later in summer. Climate experts link the early heatwave to broader trends of global warming, though specific attribution studies are pending.
