France recorded 5,764 excess deaths during June heatwaves, health agency says

PARIS, France — France's national public health agency said 5,764 excess deaths were recorded during a severe heatwave that struck the country between June 17 and July 2. The agency reported that roughly half of the excess deaths occurred over three days, between June 25 and 27, describing the spike as the highest since the historic 2003 heatwave. According to the agency, the increase in mortality was visible across all age groups over 15, and was particularly pronounced among those over 45, a pattern it called "unprecedented." It said the heatwave's early start and long duration meant 98.5% of the population was affected, while 92 districts saw significant disruption to schools and workplaces. Two-thirds of the excess deaths were among people aged 75 and over, with the agency attributing the higher toll to the group's heightened vulnerability. France recorded around 5,700 deaths linked to extreme heat throughout last summer, and the agency noted that a third heatwave hit the country in mid-July.