Intense heat experienced in current France differs significantly from 2003's, only bearing resemblance in the south-western regions.

The recent heatwave that struck France from August 8 to 18 was not as intense or severe as the historic heatwave of August 2003, except in the Southwest. This assessment was made by Météo-France, the national weather service of France, on August 20.

While the temperatures in Strasbourg and Paris during the August 2020 heatwave were three to four degrees Celsius lower than in August 2003, certain cities in the Southwest experienced higher temperatures. In cities such as Carcassonne, Cognac, Toulouse, and Bordeaux, maximum temperatures during this heatwave were on average one to two degrees higher than in 2003.

The heatwave in the South of France exceeded the 40°C threshold several times, sometimes for two consecutive days, in cities such as Toulouse, Argentat, and Agen. In contrast, maximum temperatures in Strasbourg and Paris were three to four degrees cooler during this heatwave compared to the 2003 heatwave.

The heatwave in August 2020 was not as severe as the 2003 heatwave in terms of temperature rise, but it was more prolonged, especially in the Southwest. The heatwave in August 2020 resulted in more tropical nights compared to the same period in 2003. Tropical nights, where the temperature did not drop below 20°C, increased during the August 2020 heatwave, particularly in Nice, Sète, and Perpignan, where they occurred consecutively for 11 days.

The number of stations reaching or exceeding the 40°C threshold was lower in August 2020 compared to 2003. In August 2020, the 40°C threshold was reached or exceeded 32 times by 20 stations on Météo-France's network, compared to 87 times by 28 stations in 2003.

It is important to note that human activities that consume fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) have caused an unprecedented rapid warming of the Earth, resulting in an average temperature rise of 1.1°C since the 19th century. This rapid warming threatens the future of our societies and biodiversity.

Solutions to combat the climate crisis include the use of renewable energies, practicing sobriety, and reducing meat consumption. As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, it is crucial to take action to mitigate its impacts and ensure a sustainable future for all.