Archive · 19 Aug 2026
France Reports 1,243 Excess Deaths After July Heatwaves
France experienced very hot weather between July 3 and July 22.
During that time, about 1,243 more people died than normally expected.
These deaths were counted regardless of their specific causes.
About three out of every four additional deaths involved people aged 75 or older.
July was France’s hottest month recorded so far and one of its driest.
The health ministry said the number is only an early estimate.
A separate estimate found 5,764 excess deaths between June 17 and July 2.
More complete summer figures are expected in October or November.
France recorded an estimated 1,243 excess deaths between July 3 and July 22.
The deaths occurred during a period of exceptionally high temperatures.
People aged 75 and older accounted for about three-quarters of the excess mortality.
The estimate includes deaths from all causes and is based on death certificates.
Final figures for the entire summer are expected in October or November.
- Who
- The French health ministry reported the figures, which primarily affected people aged 75 and older.
- What
- France recorded an estimated 1,243 excess deaths during the July heatwaves.
- When
- The deaths were recorded between July 3 and July 22; final summer data is expected in October or November.
- Where
- France.
- Why
- The excess deaths occurred during a period of exceptionally high temperatures.
- Excess deaths
- 1,243 between July 3 and July 22
- Most affected age group
- People aged 75 and older, representing about three-quarters of excess mortality
- Counting method
- An estimate based on death certificates
- Causes included
- Deaths from all causes
- Earlier period
- 5,764 excess deaths were recorded between June 17 and July 2
- Data status
- The July tally is preliminary
- Expected final data
- Figures for the whole summer are due in October or November