Over 7,300 Excess Deaths Recorded During French Heatwaves

France has registered more than 7,300 excess deaths during the intense heatwaves that have affected the country throughout May, June, and July. The national health ministry reported the figures on Wednesday, highlighting the severe impact of the prolonged extreme weather.

Since mid-June, France has endured 52 days of heatwaves, according to an analysis by AFP of meteorological data. A two-week heatwave in June was quickly followed by 16 days in July and a continuous 22-day heatwave starting from late July, which is still ongoing. The country has seen only two short breaks, of three and eight days respectively, since the first heatwave began on June 17.

Many parts of France are ill-equipped to handle such extreme heat, with air conditioning being uncommon in homes. Public health authorities, Santé Publique France, recorded 1,243 more deaths than normal between July 2 and July 22. This figure adds to the 5,764 cases of excess mortality registered from June 17 to June 30, and an additional 300 deaths during the initial heatwave in late May. These numbers are considered preliminary.

The health ministry indicated that nearly three-quarters of these excess deaths involve individuals over the age of 75. However, the heat's impact is not limited to the elderly, affecting all age groups from 45 years and upward. The exact causes of these deaths are still under investigation, and definitive attribution to heat is pending. Final figures are expected to be released in the autumn.