France’s national weather service, Météo-France, has issued its highest-level heat alert – a “vigilance rouge” – for 35 departments across the country, impacting an unprecedented 26 million people. The alert, in effect for Sunday, signifies a critical situation with very intense heat. This follows a scorching Saturday, and forecasts predict temperatures will continue to rise. This marks a record number of departments under the highest heat warning simultaneously. Authorities are urging extreme caution, particularly for vulnerable populations. The heatwave is expected to place significant strain on public health services and infrastructure. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, seek shade, and check on neighbors.