France Records Nearly 9,000 Deaths During Late June Heatwave

France registered an estimated 2,025 excess deaths during the severe heatwave that gripped the country in late June, based on preliminary data from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE). The figures, reported by BFM TV, coincide with nearly 9,000 deaths digitally registered nationwide between June 22 and June 28, the period of the heatwave's peak.

French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist cautioned that the data remains provisional. She explained that electronic death certificates do not capture every death recorded across the country, suggesting the current numbers might underestimate the total impact of the extreme weather event. The excess mortality estimate compares the number of deaths during the heatwave to expected mortality levels for that period.

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The figures remain provisional because electronic death certificates do not capture every death recorded nationwide.

Large parts of Europe faced record-breaking temperatures in late June, leading to widespread health advisories, increased wildfire risks, and disruptions. France was particularly affected, with authorities urging residents to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses. The heatwave also prompted concerns about its potential impact in other regions, such as Indonesia.

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She cautioned that the current data should be interpreted carefully and may underestimate the full impact of the heatwave.