France’s national weather service, Météo-France, has placed 72 departments under a red alert warning for extreme heat, effective Thursday. This highest level of alert signifies a significant danger, particularly for vulnerable populations. The red alert has been extended to include 14 additional departments, primarily located in the northeast and eastern regions of the country. These newly affected areas are: Marne, Meuse, Ardennes, Haute-Marne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Haute-Saône, Moselle, Vosges, Haut-Rhin, Bas-Rhin, Territoire de Belfort, Jura, Doubs, and Loire. The alert indicates temperatures will be exceptionally high, posing risks to public health and potentially straining infrastructure. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration, and are preparing for potential disruptions. Further updates and safety guidelines are being disseminated by Météo-France and local officials.