Heatwave causes 1,000 excess deaths in France

France has experienced around 1,000 excess deaths in less than a week due to a severe heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 40C and marking the hottest day since 2003. The majority of victims were elderly, highlighting the need for solidarity measures for vulnerable populations. Hospitals, funeral homes, and public services in the capital and other regions are strained, prompting criticism of the government’s preparedness, which the Interior Minister has refuted.

• Around 1,000 excess deaths recorded in France since June 24.
• 85% of victims were aged 65 or older.
• Temperatures exceeded 40C, with Tuesday being the hottest day nationwide since 2003.
• Deaths at home increased by 40%, particularly in the Ile-de-France region.
• Hospitals and funeral homes in Paris are overwhelmed.
• Some politicians criticized the government’s handling of the heatwave as a ‘disaster’.
• Similar high temperatures were recorded in Germany (41.7C) and the Czech Republic (41.1C).