PARIS, France — French health authorities have reported approximately 1,000 excess deaths during the country’s record-breaking heatwave, with elderly people accounting for the overwhelming majority of the fatalities.
In a statement released on Sunday, Public Health France said around 1,000 more deaths had been recorded since June 24 than would normally be expected over the same period.
“Since June 24, approximately 1,000 additional deaths (unconsolidated figures) have been observed compared to the deaths recorded in previous months,” the agency said.
The health agency noted that the regions placed under the highest-level red heat alert experienced the greatest impact, with people aged 65 years and above accounting for 85 percent of the reported deaths.
Officials also observed the sharpest increase in fatalities among people who died at home, particularly in the Île-de-France region, which includes Paris and its surrounding suburbs.
Public Health France said the findings underscore the importance of protecting vulnerable members of society during extreme weather events.
“This observation serves as a reminder of the need for measures of solidarity toward people who are isolated or experiencing profound loneliness, including in highly urbanised areas,” the agency said.
Authorities cautioned that the figures remain preliminary and could rise further as additional mortality data is consolidated.
The extreme heat has placed significant pressure on France’s healthcare system over the past week, with hospitals reporting increased admissions for heat-related illnesses and emergency services responding to a surge in distress calls.
Temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of the country during the peak of the heatwave, making it one of the most intense June heat events ever recorded in France.
Meteorologists said temperatures began easing across much of the country on Sunday after several days of relentless heat. However, health authorities continue to urge residents—particularly older adults, young children and people with underlying medical conditions—to remain hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and check regularly on vulnerable neighbours and relatives.