France experienced its hottest and driest July on record, according to Météo France, with rainfall deficits reaching nearly 70%. This severe drought is causing critical conditions in the nation’s small rivers and streams. The French Office of Biodiversity (OFB) reports “exceptional degradation” impacting both animal and plant species. Pierre-Edouard Guillain, Deputy Director-General of the OFB, warns this could be a turning point for biodiversity. Experts fear lasting consequences for ecosystems already stressed by climate change. The drought highlights the growing vulnerability of French ecosystems to extreme weather events. Further details on the situation are available from RFI reports.