Weather Background: African High Expanding Northward from the Sahara Desert
A strong subtropical high-pressure system over North Africa has strengthened and expanded northward into the Mediterranean region. The system has already brought persistent high pressure and above-normal temperatures to the Iberian Peninsula, and the heat wave is forecast to extend across much of the Mediterranean coastline. Following Spain and France, Italy and Greece are also expected to experience intense heat for more than a week, with persistently above-normal temperatures forecast to continue across southern Europe.
Situation in France: Abnormally High Temperatures Across the Country
France is experiencing a widespread heat zone extending from south to north, driven by the African-origin heat wave. Météo-France has issued high-temperature warnings for multiple departments, and temperatures exceeding 40°C are of particular concern in inland areas.
Temperature Forecast for Paris Airports
This heat wave is directly impacting both of Paris's major aviation hubs. While Paris's average July maximum temperature is around 25°C, this week temperatures are forecast to rise to approximately 35°C — more than 10°C above the seasonal norm.
Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG / CDG)
- July 14 (UTC 00–24Z): Maximum temperature forecast at 36°C, peaking around 15–17Z.
- July 15 (UTC 00–24Z): Maximum temperature forecast at 35°C, peaking around 13–16Z.
Paris-Orly Airport (LFPO / ORY)
- July 14 (UTC 00–24Z): Maximum temperature forecast at 36°C, peaking around 15–17Z.
- July 15 (UTC 00–24Z): Maximum temperature forecast at 36°C, peaking around 14–17Z.
Outlook
The peak of the heat wave is expected to center around July 14, after which temperatures are forecast to gradually decrease from July 17 onward. However, depending on the behavior of the African High, the duration of elevated temperatures may be extended, and close monitoring of the latest information remains essential.
Furthermore, as the heat wave shifts eastward, similarly extreme temperatures are forecast for Mediterranean coastal countries including Italy and Greece.
For detailed forecast information at airports worldwide, please visit SkyAviators, our aviation decision-support tool designed specifically for aviation operators. Learn more about "SkyAviators"
