Dangerous heat wave to scorch France into Saturday

By Eric Leister, Meteorologist

August 23,2016; 10:14PM,EDT

 

 

Several days of intense heat will build across France this week with temperatures approaching 38 C (100 F) in many locations.
"A large area of high pressure will funnel hot air from Africa into France," AccuWeather Meteorologist Steve Travis said.
The prolonged period of heat will create dangerous conditions for the elderly as well as anyone engaging in outdoor activities during the afternoon.

The most extreme heat will expand north and eastward in France on Wednesday, reaching areas around Paris and Lyon.
This heat wave will remain entrenched over the region through Saturday.
Anyone going outdoors for an extended period or performing strenuous actives will need to remain hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.
"It will feel hotter than 38 C (100 F) in the afternoon sun," Travis said.
People should remain diligent and check on the elderly frequently during the heat wave.
People cool off in the Trocadero fountain near the Eiffel tower in Paris, Tuesday, Aug.16,2016. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)
Temperatures will soar to or above 35 C (95 F) in areas from Toulouse northward to Tours and Paris from Wednesday through Saturday.
The high temperature could approach 38 C (100 F) in Paris on Thursday and Friday. This would be the latest in the year the city has reached that threshold since record keeping began.
The normal high temperature in Paris this time of the year is around 23 C (73 F).
Overnight low temperatures will struggle to fall below 21 C (70 F) Thursday, Friday and Saturday, resulting in uncomfortable sleeping conditions.
Relief from the extreme heat will arrive on Sunday as a cold front ushers in a cooler air mass from the Atlantic, though temperatures will remain well above normal.
Temperatures will continue to trend downward on Monday.
This clashing of cooler air from the Atlantic and hot air entrenched over France will spark some locally strong thunderstorms Sunday night into Monday.
RELATED:
France Weather Center
MinuteCast® for your location
Interactive France weather radar
This heat wave will also continue a high fire threat across southern France where two major wildfires are roaring.
The Var department of southeastern France has issued high alerts for fires this week and has prohibited use of vehicles off public roads and smoking and lighting cigarettes in outdoor areas.