France is bracing for its fifth heatwave since June, with 22 departments placed under an orange heat alert by the national weather service Météo-France.

France is bracing for what is expected to be a new heatwave episode beginning this weekend, according to Météo-France, though the duration and intensity are yet to be determined.

Less than a month after a historic heatwave in May, France is preparing for another intense heatwave expected to begin on Wednesday, according to Météo-France.

The CEO of Météo-France, Virginie Schwarz, has warned that heatwaves are projected to increase fivefold by 2050, noting that France has experienced more heatwaves in the last 15 years than in the preceding 60 years.

Météo-France data reveals that more than half of the 51 heatwaves recorded in France since 1947 have occurred in the past 15 years, indicating an increasing frequency of such events.

France is experiencing unseasonably extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius. Météo-France announced record high temperatures for May and predicted an even hotter day.

France is experiencing its third heatwave, with 61 departments placed on orange alert and temperatures expected to reach 41°C. Météo-France has also issued a 'very high risk of forest fires' warning for 57 departments for Tuesday.

Europe is on alert for extreme heatwaves, with Météo-France warning of temperatures near 40°C starting this Sunday, alongside concerns about high waves.