France is not prepared for the increasing frequency of heatwaves due to inadequate housing and under-prepared infrastructure, researchers said.
This lack of readiness poses a significant risk to public health and national stability as extreme temperatures become more regular. With climate forecasts predicting a temperature increase of four°C by the end of the century [2], the gap between policy planning and physical implementation could lead to systemic failures.
Christian Clot, an explorer and director of the Human Adaptation Institute, said that the nation tends to react to these episodes rather than preparing for them [1]. He said that approximately 33% of housing units act as "thermal kettles," meaning they are poorly adapted to high heat [1].
Infrastructure is also struggling to keep pace with the changing climate. Reports indicate that heatwaves are expected to multiply and disrupt both daily life and critical infrastructure [2]. The national rail network, for example, is currently attempting to adapt its operations and train speeds to manage the impact of extreme heat [2].
Despite these challenges, the transition from planning to action remains slow. While France has developed multiple adaptation plans, it has struggled to implement concrete measures [3]. Specifically, fewer than 10% of the actions outlined in the third national adaptation plan for heatwaves have been actually put into effect [3].
This failure to execute existing plans leaves a large portion of the metropolitan population vulnerable. The combination of poorly insulated homes, and a slow-moving bureaucratic response, creates a precarious environment as temperatures continue to climb [1], [3].
“"On réagit à ces épisodes mais on ne s'y prépare pas."”
The discrepancy between France's strategic planning and its actual implementation suggests a systemic failure in climate adaptation. While the government possesses the theoretical frameworks to handle heatwaves, the lack of physical upgrades to the housing stock and infrastructure means the state remains in a reactive mode. This creates a growing vulnerability gap that could lead to increased mortality and economic disruption as the 40°C threshold becomes more common.
