French health officials reported approximately 1,000 excess deaths during a record-breaking heatwave that has baked much of western Europe for days. Public Health France said in a statement that since June 24, around 1,000 additional deaths (unconsolidated figures) have been observed compared to deaths recorded in previous months.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
The agency noted that areas under red alert for heat were particularly badly affected, with 85% of the deaths occurring among individuals aged 65 and over. The sharpest increases involved people dying at home, especially in the Ile-de-France region, which includes Paris and its suburbs.
“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 urbanized areas,” the statement said.
Preliminary Figures and Cooling Temperatures
Public Health France stressed that the figures were preliminary and likely an underestimate. The heat eased across France on Sunday after days of punishing temperatures that saw the mercury rise above 40°C in many areas.
