Archive · 23 Jul 2026
France records over 5,700 excess deaths during historic June heatwave
France recently experienced a very hot period called a heatwave in June.
During this time, there were many more deaths than usual.
The health agency in France counted over 5,700 extra deaths.
This is the highest number of deaths from a heatwave since 2003.
The hottest days were June 24 and 25, with temperatures reaching 30°C on average.
The Paris area was hit the hardest, with almost 2,000 more deaths than expected.
Many of these deaths happened in hospitals, at home, or in care homes for older people.
Most of the people who died were over 75 years old.
The heatwave was so intense that it caused problems like wildfires and overwhelmed funeral services.
Experts say this is a sign of the climate emergency, but some people disagree and think it's just natural weather.
France recorded 5,764 excess deaths during the June heatwave, the highest since 2003.
The heatwave caused a 36% increase in deaths from June 17 to July 2.
The Île-de-France region, including Paris, was the hardest hit with 1,999 excess deaths.
The hottest days were June 24 and 25, with national average temperatures reaching 30°C.
Most of the excess deaths occurred over three days during the peak of the heatwave.
- Who
- French public health agency, residents of France, especially the elderly
- What
- Historic heatwave leading to excess deaths
- When
- June 17 to July 2
- Where
- France, particularly the Île-de-France region
- Why
- Extreme temperatures and prolonged heatwave conditions
Climate Change Deniers
Climate Change Advocates
Cause of Heatwave
Climate Change Deniers
Natural weather patterns
Climate Change Advocates
Human-induced climate change
- Excess Deaths
- 5,764
- Period
- June 17 to July 2
- Increase in Deaths
- 36%
- Hottest Days
- June 24 and 25
- National Average Temperature
- 30°C
- Hardest Hit Region
- Île-de-France (Paris)
- Excess Deaths in Paris
- 1,999
- Percentage Increase in Paris
- 80%