The Foreign Office has issued an emergency travel warning for France as a record-breaking European heatwave is forecast to sweep across the continent, with temperatures expected to exceed 45 degrees Celsius in some regions. The warning, posted on the government's official travel advice website, urges British nationals to avoid non-essential travel to southern and central France, which are predicted to be the most severely affected areas. The Foreign Office stated, 'Extreme temperatures pose a risk to life; travellers should exercise caution and follow local authority guidance.
' The heatwave, which meteorologists describe as unprecedented in scale and duration, is driven by a high-pressure system originating from the Sahara. The UK Met Office has also issued a level three heat-health alert for parts of southern England, warning of potential strain on the NHS and advising the elderly and vulnerable to remain indoors. Transport networks across Europe are expected to face disruption as rail operators implement speed restrictions to prevent track buckling, and airports in affected regions may experience flight delays.
The French government has activated its national heatwave plan, opening cooling centres and extending public swimming pool hours. The crisis comes as the UK experiences its own heatwave, which is predicted to peak later this week, raising concerns about water shortages and wildfire risks in tinder-dry landscapes. The Foreign Office advises all British nationals in France to register their presence via the travel registration app and to monitor local news for updates.
