Heatwave in France Leaves 2,000 Extra Deaths, Europe Faces Rising Temperatures

Sun Sep 06 2026 17:20:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In late June, France recorded more than 2,000 excess deaths during a record heatwave, signalling a surge in hot‑day fatalities across Europe.

France's health ministry announced a spike of 2,025 excess deaths in the last week of June, a nearly 30% jump from the week before. Paris alone saw a 62% rise in mortality, reflecting the brutal heat that set all‑country averages highest ever on 24 June. The pattern mirrors broader European trends – Belgium logged 1,222 excess deaths, the Netherlands 480 – as heatwaves trigger floods, heat‑related illnesses and wildfires. Climate scientists warn that Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average, making such surges more routine, while officials urge cooling measures and emergency alerts in hot regions.

Heatwave in France Leaves 2,000 Extra Deaths, Europe Faces Rising Temperatures

France's health ministry said that the country lost 2,025 people in the final week of June – a 29% jump from the preceding week – illustrating the killing power of Europe's extreme summer heat. The rise is far above normal, with older adults (45+) suffering the most.

Temperatures hit almost 41°C in Paris on 24 June, the hottest average day in the country’s history, prompting a nationwide red alert for heat. The spike coincides with a high‑pressure system that’s drumming across southern Britain and Spain.

Belgium recorded 1,222 excess deaths during the same period, nearly a 40% increase, and the Netherlands added about 480, most above 80 years old. Rising temperatures are sparking wildfires too – in southern France, fires raged next to forested hills.

Scientists point to Europe's rapid warming – twice the global average, causing heatwaves, fire outbreaks, and water stress. Weather forecasts predict the heat will hit 40°C in southern France and 36‑37°C around Bordeaux, Toulouse and Agen before cooling slightly next week.

Officials urge staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor work, and keeping cooling devices on; emergency alerts keep people informed about forest‑fire risks and high‑temperature warnings. The trend signals a new normal for hot weather that could become more frequent as climate change pushes temperatures higher worldwide.