Day 3296 (Wednesday) 17th June 2026

This is Cannes

and this is Petite Afrique in Beaulieu. 

It would appear that France is about to get a heatwave but the south of France will be rescued from it, read on…

France is about to be hit by an imminent heatwave: we explain why the French Riviera will be spared.

A major heatwave, expected to begin between Wednesday and Thursday, will hit France for several days, although it will spare the Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments. We explain why

"We can already describe this one as early, one of the earliest that France has experienced along with those of 2005, 2017, 2022 and 2025 ," he specifies.

By widening the focus, the figures are striking: thus, from 1947 to 2010, France experienced 25 heat waves compared to 26 from 2011 to 2025.

The Mediterranean to the rescue… For now

According to models shared this Tuesday by the weather forecasting agency, from this Wednesday, the heat will intensify everywhere, between 30 and 35 °C for the majority of regions , with peaks of 36 °/37 °C possible in the South-West, central west and central east.

This weekend, maximum temperatures of 40°C could be recorded in the Poitou-Charentes, Centre-Val de Loire, Île-de-France and Rhône Valley regions…

But Météo France indicates that it is nevertheless "too early to say whether records will be broken in the coming days".

While 51 departments are expected to switch to yellow alert - or even orange in the coming hours - for heatwave and storms, the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var are not expected to be affected by this episode.

"The French Riviera will benefit from this marine effect ," explains Christelle Robert, forecaster at Météo France. "It's spring: sea temperatures are relatively cool even if they remain above seasonal norms in the Mediterranean. The effect of sea winds will moderate the warming of daytime temperatures ,  " she details.

Beware of fire risk

Although the French Riviera should be spared the very hot nights and daytime heat forecast for a large part of France, the fire risk is very real.

"In the western part of the Alpes-Maritimes, bordering the Var , there is an extremely significant surface drought. It has not rained seriously for a very long time, so the level of fire risk is high ," explains Jean-Christophe Vincendon, national forest fire coordinator at Météo France.

Unlocking the Mysteries of French Culture: A Journey Through Tradition, Cuisine, and Lifestyle.

France, with its rich history and diverse cultural tapestry, has long captivated the imagination of people around the world. From the iconic landmarks of Paris to the quaint villages of Provence, the essence of French culture is deeply intertwined with its traditions, cuisine, and lifestyle. In this article, we embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of French culture, providing insights into its unique customs and practices.

Understanding French Tradition:

At the heart of French culture lies a reverence for tradition and heritage. From centuries-old festivals to time-honoured rituals, tradition permeates every aspect of life in France. One of the most iconic traditions is Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14th to commemorate the French Revolution. This national holiday is marked by parades, fireworks, and festivities across the country, reflecting the spirit of liberté, égalité, fraternité.

La Bise

Another cherished tradition is the art of la bise, the customary greeting of kissing on the cheeks. While the number of kisses may vary depending on the region, la bise is a symbol of friendship and camaraderie in French society. Understanding and respecting these cultural norms is essential for navigating social interactions in France.

Exploring French Cuisine:

No discussion of French culture would be complete without delving into its world-renowned cuisine. French gastronomy is revered for its sophistication, flavour, and artistry, earning UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status. From the delicate pastries of Parisian patisseries to the hearty cassoulets of the southwest, French cuisine is as diverse as the regions that inspire it.

One iconic French dish is boeuf bourguignon, a hearty beef stew simmered in red wine and infused with aromatic herbs. 

This classic comfort food encapsulates the essence of French cooking: simple ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces through meticulous preparation and attention to detail. Whether dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cosy bistro, experiencing French cuisine is a feast for the senses.

Embracing the French Lifestyle:

Beyond its traditions and cuisine, French culture is characterised by a distinct way of life that values leisure, art, and joie de vivre. The concept of l'art de vivre, or the art of living, emphasises the importance of savouring life's pleasures and cultivating meaningful experiences.

One quintessential aspect of the French lifestyle is the café culture, where locals gather to enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee and engage in lively conversation. From bustling sidewalk cafes in Paris to quaint village squares in Provence, the café serves as a social hub where friends, families, and strangers come together to connect and unwind.

Additionally, the French reverence for the arts is evident in its world-class museums, galleries, and theatres. Whether admiring the masterpieces of the Louvre or attending a performance at the Opéra Garnier, the pursuit of cultural enrichment is deeply ingrained in French society.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, French culture is a rich tapestry woven from centuries of tradition, gastronomy, and lifestyle. By understanding and appreciating its customs and practices, we gain insight into the heart and soul of France. From the cobblestone streets of Montmartre to the sun-kissed vineyards of Bordeaux, the essence of French culture is a source of inspiration and fascination for people around the world. 

This was Badger today – that is Huw’s sunbathing chair, Badger doesn’t look comfortable at all but he was happy enough.