The Alpes-Maritimes have been experiencing a heatwave since Monday, August 11, 2025, marked by exceptionally high night-time temperatures. In both Nice and Valbonne, records were set during the night from Monday to Tuesday and it is not expected to cool down in the coming days.
The thermometer no longer drops. As announced on Sunday, Nice and several communes of the Alpes-Maritimes have been enduring a persistent heatwave since the start of the week. During the night from Monday, August 11 to Tuesday, August 12, unprecedented values were recorded by Météo France.
In Nice, the minimum temperature recorded at dawn reached 28.7°C. The city had never experienced such nocturnal heat since record-keeping began. The previous record dated back to August 22, 2023, with 28.6°C. In the commune of Valbonne, the mercury dropped to a low of 29.4°C. This too is a record value, slightly higher than the 29.1°C recorded in 2023.
These high temperatures are not confined to the warmest hours of the day. They persist into the middle of the night, limiting the usual relief after sunset. According to forecasts from Météo France, the situation requires heightened vigilance, particularly for mountain activities planned for late afternoon.
Days Remaining Moderately Hot
Tuesday, August 12, 2025, the maximum temperature is expected to reach 33°C in Nice, a level comparable to that observed the previous day. This heat will persist in the coming days. Forecasts indicate approximately 30°C at 8 a.m. on Wednesday morning, indicating that morning coolness will not be present.
Wednesday afternoon, the thermometer is expected to display 31°C, with a northwesterly wind at the end of the day possibly gusting up to 65 km/h. Thursday, the morning will remain sunny with a minimum of 27°C, followed by a risk of thunderstorms by midday. Maximum temperatures could then reach 32°C.
On Friday, the scenario repeats itself. The morning will start at 27°C, climbing to 33°C in the afternoon under predominantly clear skies.
No Drop Before Thursday at the Earliest
The current weather situation is characterized by the persistence of high temperatures at least until the end of the week. The department is under yellow storm alert until Tuesday evening at 11 p.m. Authorities are reminding of the usual recommendations: drink water regularly, avoid physical exertion during the hottest hours, and look after vulnerable individuals.
Although maximum temperatures in Nice remain below the peaks observed in southwest France or the Rhône Valley — where they exceed 40°C — it is the nocturnal heat that is concerning. It complicates the body’s recovery and increases the risks associated with the heatwave.
In the short term, only the potential of thunderstorms on Thursday could bring a slight decrease in daytime temperatures. But forecasts do not suggest significant cooling at night. In the meantime, many activities are available to cool down while enjoying the summer.
