France records 2,025 excess deaths at peak of heatwave as Europe braces for more extreme weather
Summary
France reported over 2,000 more deaths than usual during a record-breaking heatwave in late June, especially affecting people over 45. The heatwave caused high temperatures across Europe, with warnings of more extreme heat and wildfires in the coming days.Key Facts
- In the last week of June, deaths in France rose by 29%, with 2,025 extra deaths recorded.
- Paris saw record-high temperatures close to 41°C (about 106°F) on June 24.
- The heatwave also caused a rise in drowning deaths, with 72 drownings reported in France since June 18.
- Belgium and the Netherlands also recorded high numbers of excess deaths, mostly among the elderly.
- Heat warnings and red alerts for wildfires were issued in southern France and parts of the Iberian Peninsula, including Portugal and Spain.
- Nearly 7,000 fires have occurred in France since the start of summer 2026, burning about 8,700 hectares.
- Climate experts say Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average, increasing the risk of heatwaves and wildfires.
- The UK and parts of western Europe also expect more hot weather in the coming weekend.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
