A heatwave has been affecting the southern half of France since Friday, August 8, 2025, with an increasing number of departments placed under orange heatwave vigilance by Météo France. Initially, 11 departments were under orange alert on Friday, which expanded to 17 on Saturday morning and then to 28 departments by Saturday afternoon. On Sunday, the number of departments under orange vigilance rose to 42, with temperatures expected to reach up to 41°C in some areas, including Montpellier. The heatwave is forecast to continue intensifying, with 46 departments under orange alert on Monday and temperatures potentially exceeding 42°C in certain locations. The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is expected to experience some of the highest temperatures, with frequent occurrences of 40°C or more. Additionally, 16 departments are facing a high risk of forest fires due to the combination of heat and wind. The Pyrenees-Orientales department was placed under orange vigilance starting Sunday, August 10, for at least 48 hours. Authorities have issued warnings about the ongoing heatwave and associated risks, including forest fires, as the peak of the heatwave is anticipated between Monday and Tuesday.