Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction
France has developed a comprehensive framework to manage extreme heat, significantly reducing heat-related mortality and improving public awareness.
The approach includes national, regional, and local initiatives, guided by lessons learned from the 2003 heatwave, which prompted the creation of a robust governance structure to prepare for and respond to heat risks.
The Ministry for Ecological Transition leads national climate change adaptation efforts, while the Ministry of Health oversees the inter-ministerial system for health management of heatwaves, active annually from June to September. Météo- France provides weather forecasts and early warnings, while Santé publique France manages health surveillance systems and public health campaigns to raise awareness of heat risks.
Local governments, including departmental prefects and mayors, are responsible for implementing heat management plans, such as ORSEC (Organisation de la Réponse de Sécurité Civile), and communal safeguard plans. These local strategies include access to cooled public places, ensuring access to water, and maintaining registers of vulnerable individuals for targeted interventions.
France’s heat response benefits from strong collaboration across sectors. Public-private partnerships with Electricité de France (EDF) ensure energy stability during heatwaves, while Veolia manages water resources. NGOs like the French Red Cross and Secours Populaire Français assist local governments by providing services to vulnerable populations. International partnerships with the World health Organization (WHO) and participation in European Union initiatives like Horizon 2020 also bolster France’s heat resilience efforts.
France has achieved a significant reduction in heat-related mortality, with no extreme excess mortality observed during severe heatwaves since 2004. While these events have not matched the severity or duration of the 2003 heatwave, they have still impacted mortality and healthcare services. Public awareness campaigns have also been highly effective, with 75% of the population reporting they are well informed about heat risks. France has implemented innovative strategies, including the creation of cool islands in urban areas and localized heat action plans tailored to regional needs. Through ORSEC and communal safeguard plans, local governments have mobilized resources to protect vulnerable populations, ensuring effective heatwave response.
France’s success in managing extreme heat, through national policy and localized action, demonstrates the importance of early warning systems, cross-sectoral collaboration, and strong governance.