France experienced a nearly 30 percent rise in deaths during the week of June 22, the peak of a record-breaking heatwave, according to Public Health France. The agency reported a 29.1 percent increase, corresponding to 2,025 additional deaths compared to the previous week, noting that the figure is likely an underestimate.
Regional Impact and Political Reactions
In the Paris region, deaths surged by 62 percent during the week starting June 22. A similar spike was observed in the Pays de la Loire region. The heatwave has sparked political backlash, with some French politicians criticizing inadequate government measures. The Greens filed a no-confidence motion against the government of Sebastien Lecornu on Thursday.
Comparison with 2003 Heatwave
The June heatwave lasted about 11 days, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in many areas. In 2003, a severe heatwave caused around 15,000 deaths in France, many among the elderly in nursing homes. Although the current heatwave is considered more intense, authorities believe its consequences are less severe. Health Minister Stephanie Rist stated, “It will probably not be comparable.” Nicolas Revel, director general of the Paris public hospital system, expects the death toll to be lower than in 2003 but “probably” higher than last year's heatwave, which claimed 5,700 lives.
