France reports over 5,700 excess deaths during June heat wave

France recorded an estimated 5,764 excess deaths during the June 17-July 2 heat wave, according to Public Health France. The agency’s statistical model projected 15,910 deaths in the affected regions under normal conditions, but 21,674 deaths from all causes were observed, representing a 36% increase.

The excess mortality rate is the highest for any French heat wave since the 2003 event, which caused roughly 15,000 deaths. The hottest days fell on June 24 and 25, when the national average reached 30 °C (86 °F) and many locations exceeded 40 °C (104 °F). More than half of the additional deaths occurred during the three-day peak from June 25 to 27.

"This unprecedented episode, characterized by its early onset, intensity, and duration, exposed nearly the entire population to extreme heat during a period when school and work activities were still in full swing," the agency said.

The Paris region experienced the greatest impact, with 1,999 excess deaths, about 80% above the expected figure. Funeral directors reported capacity strains, and hospitals saw a surge in patients with heat-related conditions. Nearly half of the deaths occurred in hospitals, a third at home, and the remainder mainly in care homes for the elderly.

Across Europe, early and intense heat waves have been linked to more than 10,000 additional deaths, according to emerging data. Public Health France will update the death toll later in the year as more comprehensive information becomes available.