Deaths surged 29% in France during week of record heat, health agency says
Summary
During one week in June 2026, France experienced a record-breaking heat wave that caused a 29% increase in deaths compared to the previous week, adding at least 2,000 more deaths. Hospitals and funeral services were overwhelmed with heat-related cases, and many cities across France and Europe broke temperature records.Key Facts
- Deaths in France rose by 29% during June 22–28, 2026, compared to June 15–21.
- At least 8,973 deaths were recorded during the heat wave week, versus 6,948 the previous week.
- The increase of about 2,025 deaths is linked to the extreme heat.
- Hospitals treated many patients for heat-related illnesses like heart attacks, dehydration, and kidney problems.
- Deaths in private homes rose by 91%, care homes by 37%, and hospitals by nearly 20%.
- Funeral service centers in Paris reported running out of space for bodies.
- Temperature records for both day and night were broken in many French cities and across Europe.
- Public Health France noted the death count is still incomplete and may rise.
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