France reports around 1,000 excess deaths as record heatwave claims mostly elderly lives
- France has reported around 1,000 excess deaths linked to the recent record-breaking heatwave.
- Health authorities say most of those who died were aged 65 and above.
- Officials have warned the toll could increase as additional data from homes and care facilities is received.
PARIS – France has reported around 1,000 excess deaths during the recent record-breaking heatwave, with health authorities saying the majority of the victims were elderly people and warning that the final death toll is likely to rise as more information becomes available.
According to France’s public health agency, the estimate is based on excess mortality, meaning the number of deaths recorded above the normal level expected for this period. Officials said approximately 85% of the excess deaths involved people aged 65 or older, with many fatalities occurring in private homes and residential care facilities.
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The heatwave, which began on June 20, pushed temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of France and across Europe. Hospitals, emergency responders and healthcare services experienced heavy pressure as large numbers of people sought treatment for dehydration, heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
The extreme weather also disrupted daily life, affecting transport, electricity generation and public services in several European countries. Scientists say the event has been one of the most intense heatwaves ever recorded in Europe and warn that climate change is making such extreme weather events more frequent and severe.
French authorities have kept the country’s health emergency response plan at its highest level as meteorologists warn that another spell of extreme heat could return during the first week of July. Residents, particularly older adults, children and people with underlying medical conditions, have been urged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and follow official health advisories.
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