Public health authorities in France have announced that approximately 1,000 deaths have been recorded since June 24 as a result of a record-breaking heatwave. According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, this figure reflects an excess mortality rate compared to previous periods, with 85 percent of the deceased being individuals over the age of 65.
The most critical situation has been observed in regions where the highest level of alert regarding high temperatures was declared. In particular, the Île-de-France region, which encompasses Paris and its surrounding areas, has seen a sharp increase in fatalities occurring within private residences.
Health officials emphasized that this situation underscores the urgent need for greater attention toward individuals living alone and those experiencing social isolation. Authorities noted that these figures are not yet final, and it is possible that the death toll will rise further once data from nursing homes is fully integrated into the reports.
Although temperatures began to drop in most parts of France on Sunday following several days of record heat, weather warnings remain in effect for the northeastern part of the country. French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist stated that the health impacts of the heatwave could persist for 7 to 10 days even after temperatures normalize.
Scientists attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of such extreme heatwaves to climate change. In recent weeks, many European countries have broken temperature records, leading to significant disruptions in transportation, energy, and healthcare systems across the continent.
