The French territory is currently under significant climatic stress due to intensifying heatwaves.
Météo France, the national meteorological institute, has updated its forecasts as of Thursday, August 8, extending the orange heatwave alert to five more departments for at least Friday, August 9.
Over the weekend of August 10 and 11, Météo France warns of a “new episode of high heat,” forecasting temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius across much of the country.
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Specifically, the orange heatwave alert now encompasses Pyrénées-Orientales, Hérault, Bouches-du-Rhône, Vaucluse, Aude, and Gard.
Hot and sunny weather is predicted to persist, with Thursday, August 8, already witnessing temperatures of 35.5 degrees in Calvi, Corsica, 36 degrees in Perpignan, and 37 degrees in Béziers.
Residents need to be vigilant about the dangers posed by heatwaves and heatwaves, such as dehydration and heatstroke.
Météo France advises special attention to vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly, those on regular medication, and individuals with chronic diseases or mental health disorders.
@VigiMeteofrance 08 août
Pour jeudi 08 août 2024 :
🔶 1 département en Vigilance orangePour vendredi 09 août 2024 :
🔶 6 départements en Vigilance orangeRestez prudents et informés :https://t.co/JGz4rTUvHP pic.twitter.com/Ce9t5VJKeb
— VigiMétéoFrance (@VigiMeteoFrance) August 8, 2024
Symptoms of heatstroke, as described by the institute, include a fever above 40°C, hot, red and dry skin, headaches, nausea, drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.
Météo France recommends several precautionary measures: staying hydrated, keeping windows and curtains closed during the day, ventilating during nighttime, limiting sports activities, and avoiding outdoor exposure during peak heat hours.
These steps are essential to mitigate the risks associated with the ongoing heatwave and ensure public safety.
