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France braces for severe storms this weekend as heatwave gives way to violent thunderstorms Severe thunderstorms are set to hit southern France this weekend after days of extreme heat, according to weather forecasts. The transition from scorching temperatures to sudden heavy rain, hail and high winds is expected to bring dangerous conditions, particularly in the south-east of the country. The weather service has warned that temperatures will peak Friday with readings reaching up to 40°C along the Garonne Valley, while parts of the Mediterranean and Southwest regions could see highs near 39°C. These record-breaking temperatures have already led to devastating wildfires, raising concerns over the risk of further damage. However, this period of intense heat will be abruptly interrupted by a developing depression moving in from the Atlantic. According to La Chaîne Météo, the arrival of cooler air at higher altitudes will clash with the existing hot air mass, creating unstable atmospheric conditions. This conflict is expected to trigger powerful thunderstorms, some of which may be classified as violent. The storm system is anticipated to begin affecting the region late Saturday afternoon, starting in the Languedoc and spreading through the Cévennes into the Rhône Valley. The southern and eastern areas of France, including the Languedoc, Provence and much of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, will face the strongest impacts. Thunderstorms are predicted to intensify throughout the evening and early night, with localized heavy rainfall ranging from 30 to 60 millimeters per hour. In some cases, precipitation levels could exceed these amounts. These storms may also produce significant hail, with reports suggesting stones could reach considerable sizes. Wind gusts are forecast to surpass 80 to 100 kilometers per hour, posing risks to both infrastructure and outdoor activities. Weather officials have urged caution, especially given the timing coincides with holiday travel and planned outdoor gatherings. While the downpours may provide temporary relief to parched soils in some areas, they are unlikely to alleviate the ongoing drought. Localized rainfall could result in dramatic contrasts, with some communities receiving several dozen millimeters of water while nearby areas remain dry. The meteorological service notes that such isolated showers will not significantly ease the overall dry conditions. The coming days will likely see continued monitoring of the weather patterns, with potential for additional disruptions. Authorities are advised to prepare for possible flooding and other hazards associated with the sudden shift in weather. As the storm system progresses, its exact trajectory and intensity will be closely observed. For now, residents in the affected regions should stay alert and take necessary precautions ahead of the storm's arrival.