France Keeps Top Health Alert as Officials Brace for Another Heatwave

France will keep its highest-level health emergency response plan, ORSAN, in place for the next several days as authorities prepare for the possibility of another intense heatwave, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced on Tuesday.

Lecornu made the announcement during the opening of a government crisis meeting focused on reviewing the country’s response to last week’s extreme temperatures and strengthening preparations for additional heat-related emergencies.

According to France’s national weather agency, temperatures have eased across much of the country after days of scorching conditions. However, forecasters warned that another surge in heat is expected later this week, prompting officials to maintain heightened emergency measures.

The recent heatwave began on June 20 and has been described by scientists as the most severe recorded across Europe. Researchers say the event highlights how climate change is accelerating across the continent, where temperatures are rising faster than the global average.

French health authorities have also reported a significant human toll from the prolonged period of extreme heat. France’s public health agency said on Sunday that approximately 1,000 excess deaths were recorded during the heatwave that affected much of Europe. Officials cautioned that the final number of heat-related fatalities could be even higher as additional data is collected and analyzed.

The decision to keep the ORSAN emergency plan at its maximum level reflects the government’s efforts to protect public health, particularly vulnerable groups such as older adults, young children, and people with underlying medical conditions.

French authorities continue to urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak temperatures, and closely monitor official weather updates as the country prepares for another potential round of dangerous summer heat.