Nearly 2,025 excess deaths have been recorded in France due to the ongoing heatwave in Europe, according to public health officials. This figure represents a 30% increase compared to the previous week.
Heatwave Impact on France
French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist noted a significant rise in fatalities among individuals aged 45 and older. On June 24, France experienced its hottest day in history, with temperatures reaching nearly 41 degrees Celsius in Paris. Half of the country was placed under a red heat alert.
Temperatures in southern France are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius again, prompting the government to issue a red alert status due to the threat of forest fires. Data shows that 7,000 fires have been recorded since the start of summer, consuming approximately 8,700 hectares of land. Thousands of residents have been evacuated due to spreading wildfires.
Other European Countries Affected
In Belgium, 1,222 excess deaths were reported, a 39% increase, with nearly half of the fatalities aged 85 and older. In the Netherlands, authorities reported approximately 480 excess deaths last week, mostly among senior citizens aged 80 and above, after temperatures reached nearly 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of the country.
Climate Change Context
According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, Europe is warming faster than any other continent, at twice the global average. This has led to more frequent severe heatwaves, water shortages, and wildfires.
