Paris, July 22 Brussels Morning Newspaper — France excess deaths reached 5,764 during the June and July heatwaves, according to a report released by Santé publique France. The health agency said prolonged periods of extreme heat led to thousands of additional deaths above normal seasonal levels, underlining the continued public health risks posed by increasingly intense summer temperatures.
The latest figures come after several regions experienced temperatures above 40°C, prompting widespread heat alerts and emergency measures across the country. Older adults, people with chronic illnesses and vulnerable residents were among those most affected.
Heatwave Mortality Figures Raise Public Health Concerns
The report found that excess mortality increased throughout the major heatwave periods as emergency services and hospitals dealt with rising numbers of heat-related illnesses. Authorities activated national heatwave plans, opened cooling centres and urged residents to remain hydrated while avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
Despite those measures, the sustained high temperatures placed significant pressure on healthcare services and care facilities.
Health Agency Continues Monitoring Summer Conditions
Officials said mortality data will continue to be analysed as the summer progresses. Public health authorities are expected to review the effectiveness of existing heatwave response plans while encouraging local communities to strengthen support for elderly and vulnerable residents during future extreme weather events.
Climate experts have repeatedly warned that rising global temperatures are making heatwaves more frequent and more severe across Europe, increasing the need for stronger public health preparedness and climate adaptation measures.
The report showing France excess deaths of 5,764 highlights the growing human impact of extreme summer heat. While France has expanded its emergency response since previous deadly heatwaves, the latest figures demonstrate that prolonged high temperatures remain a major challenge for public health, healthcare services and local authorities.
