Heatwave in Paris: orange alert in effect, what options for families in Paris?

The heatwave is back as July 2026 begins, after several brutal heatwaves already felt and endured earlier in May and June. In the face of these soaring temperatures, what measures are available for vulnerable groups, especially families and children?

Paris is placed under orange heatwave vigilance for a heatwave until July 7, 2026 at the earliest. This designation automatically triggers Level 3 of the heatwave plan by the prefect of Île-de-France, and as a result, several measures are strengthened to protect residents, especially young children and families.

The shift to orange meteorological vigilance signals a heatwave that presents a risk to the public. It triggers heightened mobilization from state services, the City of Paris, and the players responsible for health surveillance. Once this vigilance is activated, Level 3 heatwave alert is automatically triggered by the Prefect of Île-de-France.

In this context, the City of Paris is adjusting several of its reception and prevention measures. Particular attention is being paid to families with young children, who are more sensitive to extreme heat.

Measures put in place during Paris’s orange heatwave alert:

Fourteen parent-and-child centers have cooled premises, and guidelines on heatwave risks for young children are also provided there.
38 schoolyards open this summer, until 7 p.m. on Saturdays, including 18 Oasis sites (if the level 3 heatwave plan is activated, three of the Oasis sites will stay open until 10 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays).

The 14 child‑parent welcome centers (LAEP) provide heat‑safety guidelines outlining the actions to take during heat waves. These facilities also feature cooled spaces, allowing families to take a break in a cooler environment throughout the day.

Families can also take advantage of the 38 open schoolyards during the summer. These spaces, accessible until 7 p.m. on Saturdays, offer nearby spots where people can unwind. Among them, 18 are Oasis courtyards, redesigned to curb heat with more vegetation, more shade, and cooler, heat-dissipating surfaces.

With the activation of Level 3 of the heatwave plan, the city also plans to widen opening hours for certain sites. Three school courtyards will remain exceptionally accessible until 10 p.m., on both weekdays and Saturdays, in order to allow residents to enjoy cooler evening temperatures.

Authorities are once again underscoring the importance of following recommended preventive measures: stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, avoid going out and strenuous activity during the hottest hours, keep homes cool whenever possible, and stay attentive to the most vulnerable, especially young children and the elderly.

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