France says it saw 5,700 more deaths than usual in record June heat wave

France experienced its hottest June on record, with a historic heatwave contributing to at least 5,700 more deaths than usual.

Public Health France reported that the affected regions saw 21,674 deaths from all causes between June 17 and July 2. Statistical modeling indicated that without the heatwave, these regions would have expected only 15,910 deaths. The difference of 5,764 is therefore classified as "excess" mortality, representing a 36% increase over normal expectations. This surge marks the highest excess mortality recorded in France since the devastating heatwave of 2003, which caused an estimated 15,000 deaths.

The nation registered its hottest-ever days on June 24 and 25, with the national average temperature reaching 30 degrees Celsius (86 F). Many areas experienced nighttime temperatures that remained high and daytime peaks soaring above 40 C (104 F). Just over half of the excess deaths occurred during and immediately after this intense three-day period, from June 25 to June 27.

The Paris region appears to have suffered the most, recording 1,999 unexpected deaths, approximately 80% higher than would have been anticipated without the extreme heat. Of the more than 21,600 individuals who died, nearly half passed away in hospitals, about a third died at home, and the remainder were primarily in care homes for the elderly.

“

excess