“Human-made climate change is exacerbating a phenomenon called clay shrinkage-swelling, or RGA (Retrait-Gonflement des Argiles) – which can trigger severe structural issues to detached houses.”

“This phenomenon affects 54 per cent of detached houses in France,”

“On average, clay shrinking and swelling costs €1 billion annually in compensation under the natural disaster scheme.”

“The latest map published by the French government shows that the most vulnerable areas at risk of clay shrinkage are Allier, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Dordogne, Gers, Indre, Lot-et-Garonne, Meurthe-et-Moselle, Nord, Puy-de-Dôme, Tarn and Tarn-et-Garonne. Around three million homes in these regions are considered “high risk”.”

“Global warming aggravates this phenomenon, as higher temperatures increase the frequency and severity of heatwaves and flooding.”

“For every 1℃ rise in air temperature, the atmosphere can also hold around seven per cent more moisture, which can lead to more intense and heavy rainfall.”

“Last year, France was battered by extreme heat that plunged large parts of the county into drought. An intense heatwave in August pushed temperatures up to a scorching 43.4C – contributing to 2025 being the country’s third hottest summer on record.”