France braces for heatwave in coming days, as temperatures cross 40 degrees Celcius

Heatwave will envelop France between Thursday (June 16) and Saturday (June 18), with temperatures in central parts of the country reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).A cold air system coming from the Maghreb region is acting like gear, pushing hot air upwards towards France and the Iberian peninsula, Meteo France weather expert Olivier Proust said.

"It's as if a heatstroke enters the country, with temperatures largely surpassing normal levels," he said, showing a map of France with bright red zones in most of the west and the south, stretching into central France.

The high temperatures will also worsen drought, already experienced in the Loire Valley, with riverbeds in towns like Ancenis-Saint-Gereon and Mauges-sur-Loire expanding as water levels drop, and the soil cracking from dryness.

Add WION as a Preferred Source

Also Read:Japanese airline ditches pro-Russia logo, letter 'Z' associated with Russia's invasion of Ukraine

"Clearly, this phenomenon could be more frequent, more intense, and could happen earlier in the season, and possibly end later in the season. Yes, it's a sign of this (global) warming. This is obviously triggered by human activity, and we now see that this new climate that we are experiencing is comprised of all these kinds of intensification, which brings us this stifling heat." Proust added

Periods of intense heat, which is happening more frequently and earlier in the summer season while lasting longer, are rooted in climate change.

"It's a sign of this global warming. This is obviously triggered by human activity," Proust said.
He added that other parts of Europe, such as Italy, Alpine countries and the south of Germany, will not escape the heatwave.

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.