Record heatwave causes 1,000 excess deaths in France

France has recorded approximately 1,000 more deaths than expected since June 24 as a record-breaking heatwave gripped the country, according to Public Health France Source: AP News. The preliminary figures, which are likely to rise, show 85% of deaths involved people aged 65 and over, with a sharp increase in deaths at home Source: DW News.

Death toll

• More than 1,200 deaths were recorded on June 24, and over 1,400 on both June 25 and 26, compared with a daily average of 900–1,000 in April and May Source: CNA.
• The heaviest impact was in regions under red alert, including Île-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and Brittany Source: Euronews.

Strain on mortuaries

Paris mortuaries were overwhelmed, with all 32 cold storage places taken at one facility. Funeral director Zouhaeir Hertelli said, "We're facing a really catastrophic situation" Source: SCMP. City Hall installed two temporary storage units for 40 bodies, and hospitals added 50 more spaces Source: AP News. Some funeral homes stored bodies as far as Chartres, 50 km from Paris Source: AP News.

Broader impact

The heatwave also led to alcohol bans in Paris, closure of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, and at least two drowning deaths, including Ligue 2 footballer Kenzo Kies . The UK recorded its hottest June day at 37.3°C, while Spain and Germany exceeded 40°C .