Around 1 000 excess deaths linked to record-breaking heatwave in France

Around 1 000 excess deaths have been recorded in France since June 24 during an exceptional heatwave, according to preliminary mortality data released by the French Public Health Agency (SPF).

The figures are based on early, non-consolidated mortality data and may be revised as additional reports are received. Earlier, June 23 became the hottest day ever recorded nationally based on the 24-hour average temperature, which reached 30°C (86°F) for the first time.

The health agency reported more than 1 200 deaths from all causes on June 24, followed by more than 1 400 deaths on both June 25 and June 26, although the June 26 figures are still preliminary.

During April and May, France usually recorded around 900 to 1 000 deaths per day. Compared with those earlier months, about 1 000 additional deaths have been observed since June 24.

The increase in deaths has been greatest in regions placed under red heat warnings, especially Île-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Brittany, Center-Val de Loire, Normandy, and Pays de la Loire.

Although mortality increased across all age groups, 85% of the deaths recorded were among people aged 65 and older, showing that older adults remain the group most affected by extreme heat.

Deaths increased in hospitals, nursing homes (EHPAD), and private homes. Since June 24, deaths at home have risen by about 40%, particularly in Île-de-France.

The agency clarified that its rapid monitoring system is based on electronic death certificates and usually captures about 60% of all deaths nationwide.

Coverage is much lower for deaths that occur at home, meaning the current figures almost certainly underestimate the final death toll. Additional deaths are expected to be included as more data become available.

Europe is currently experiencing a historic heatwave that has broken multiple temperature records across the continent. Germany provisionally recorded its highest air temperature on record on June 26, when mercury reached 41.3°C (106.3°F) in Saarbrücken, surpassing the previous national record of 41.2°C (106.2°F) set in July 2019, although the value remains subject to quality-control verification before it can be recognized as an official record.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands issued its first-ever Code Red for extreme heat on June 26, placing much of the Netherlands under its highest weather warning.

Temperatures reached 36.7°C (98.1°F) at Merryfield, Somerset, on June 25, provisionally making it the hottest June day on record in the United Kingdom, according to the UK Met Office. The agency also reported new provisional June records in Wales and record-equalling heat in Northern Ireland.

References:

¹ The exceptional heatwave episode marked by an increase in deaths – SPF – June 27, 2028

Rishav Kothari

I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.

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