France heatwave: 3 dead from heat, 13 drown

France is grappling with a severe heatwave, which has claimed the lives of three people due to heat-related health complications. Temperatures are forecast to soar to 42°C in some regions, prompting the highest level of heat alert, red, in 49 out of 96 administrative departments, affecting approximately 39 million people.

Adding to the crisis, 13 individuals drowned over a single night and day as they sought refuge from the oppressive heat. French Health Minister Stephanie Rist warned that the extreme weather is expected to persist for several days, with no immediate relief in sight.

The intense heat has led authorities to issue health warnings, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable. Outdoor events have been canceled, transportation disrupted, and schools closed, with office workers advised to work from home. Scientists attribute these recurring heatwaves to global warming, predicting they will become more frequent, longer, and more intense.

France has already recorded its highest-ever average June temperature, with daily and nightly readings reaching 29.2°C, surpassing the previous record set on June 30, 2025. The widespread closures of over 1,300 schools underscore the severity of the situation and the measures being taken to protect the public.

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At least several days of very, very hot weather await. We don't know when the temperature will start to drop.