Archive · 4 Sep 2026
France Reports Nearly 7,000 Heatwave Deaths Through July
France had several very hot periods during the summer of 2026.
The health minister said almost 7,000 more people than usual died during the heatwaves through late July.
A public health agency had already counted 5,764 extra deaths during a shorter period.
Other European countries also experienced dangerous heat.
Reports said at least 35,000 extra deaths occurred across Europe during four heatwaves.
Germany reported the largest estimated total, with about 14,000 heat-related deaths.
Spain also experienced temperatures above 42 degrees Celsius.
Scientists said human-caused climate change is making these extreme heat events happen more often and become stronger.
French Health Minister Stephanie Rist said nearly 7,000 excess deaths were recorded during the country’s summer heatwaves through late July.
France’s public health agency previously estimated 5,764 excess deaths from June 17 to July 2 alone.
Across Europe, at least 35,000 excess deaths were reportedly linked to four consecutive heatwaves in summer 2026.
Germany recorded an estimated 14,000 heat-related deaths between April 6 and August 9, including 9,600 in one week.
Scientists attributed the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme heat events to human-caused climate change.
- Who
- France’s Health Minister Stephanie Rist, France’s public health agency, and health authorities in Germany and Spain.
- What
- Officials reported nearly 7,000 excess deaths in France and at least 35,000 across Europe during the summer heatwaves.
- When
- The French estimate covers the period through late July 2026; the minister announced it on Friday, September 4.
- Where
- France and other parts of western Europe, including Germany and Spain.
- Why
- The deaths followed record-breaking heatwaves; scientists attributed the growing frequency and intensity of such events to human-caused climate change.
- France estimate
- Nearly 7,000 excess deaths through late July 2026
- Earlier French estimate
- 5,764 excess deaths from June 17 to July 2
- European estimate
- At least 35,000 excess deaths during four heatwaves
- Germany estimate
- About 14,000 heat-related deaths from April 6 to August 9
- Germany peak week
- 9,600 deaths were recorded from June 22 to 28
- Final French data
- Expected to be available in the coming weeks
- Reported temperatures
- Germany had 46 weather stations above 40°C, while Spain experienced sustained temperatures above 42°C