Western Europe Braces for 40C Heat as Switzerland’s Schaffhouse Hits Record 35.7C
Updated
Updated · FRANCE 24 English · Jun 20
Western Europe Braces for 40C Heat as Switzerland’s Schaffhouse Hits Record 35.7C
3 articles · Updated · FRANCE 24 English · Jun 20
Summary
Schaffhouse hit 35.7C on Friday — its hottest June temperature on record — as a Western European heatwave was forecast to intensify over the next few days.
France sits at the center of the surge, with forecasters warning Paris could top 40C for the first time in June and hundreds of schools already adjusting timetables.
Britain, France, Spain, Switzerland and Germany have raised alerts, while German forecasters also warned of weekend thunderstorms, hail and heavy rain alongside the heat.
England and Wales have already logged their hottest spring on record, and scientists say human-driven climate change is making heatwaves and other extremes more frequent and more intense.
After simulating a 50°C future, what lessons is Paris using to survive today's extreme heat?
Are France's emergency heat plans enough, or just a band-aid on a worsening climate crisis?
France Faces Record June 2026 Heatwave: Public Health, Economic, and Climate Adaptation Challenges
Overview
As of June 20, 2026, France is facing a significant and intense heatwave, leading to immediate public safety measures across the country. The severity of the situation is clear, as several municipalities have canceled major public events like the Fete de la Musique to protect public health. Elevated temperatures are causing serious concerns, prompting authorities to suspend large gatherings and consider further protective actions. The widespread impact across multiple regions highlights the need for continued vigilance, as the heatwave's effects are being felt in daily life and require ongoing attention to ensure public safety.