Europe Heatwave Linked to 1,000 Excess Deaths in France as Temperatures Continue to Rise
France has recorded around 1,000 excess deaths during the ongoing European heatwave, while millions across the continent face temperatures above 35°C.
France has reported around 1,000 excess deaths as a severe heatwave continues to affect large parts of Europe. The French public health agency said preliminary data shows that most of the deaths involved elderly people, particularly those aged 65 and above.
Health officials warned that the final number could increase as additional information from homes and care facilities becomes available. The agency stressed that while older residents remain the most vulnerable, the extreme heat is affecting people of all ages.
Millions Across Europe Facing Extreme Temperatures
The current heatwave began around June 20 and has already disrupted daily life across several European countries. Museums, schools, and other public facilities have adjusted operating hours because of the intense temperatures.
According to estimates from AFP, approximately 191 million people in Europe are expected to experience temperatures of 35°C (95°F) or higher.
The most intense conditions are being reported in:
- Germany
- Czech Republic
- Hungary
- Poland
Other countries likely to be affected include Slovakia, Serbia, Croatia, Italy, Austria, and western Ukraine.
France Still Under Heatwave Alert
France’s weather agency said conditions have improved in many parts of the country, but some northeastern regions remain under a heatwave advisory.
French Health Minister Stephanie Rist told local media that the effects of the heatwave could continue for up to 10 days.
“The episode is not finished.”
Germany Reports Additional Fatalities
Germany has also experienced several heat-related incidents. Local authorities reported at least seven deaths in swimming accidents over the weekend as many people sought relief in lakes and rivers.
In Berlin, two separate drowning incidents were confirmed on Saturday. Another unresponsive man was later discovered in a lake located in a public park in western Berlin.
Temperatures in many parts of Germany have reached or exceeded 40°C (104°F).
Record-Breaking Heat
Germany’s weather service reported that the town of Kubschuetz experienced a night temperature that did not fall below 29.4°C, making it the warmest night recorded there in nearly 150 years.
Preliminary records were also set in Germany, Denmark, and the Czech Republic during the weekend.
What Is Causing the Heatwave?
Climate scientists say such extreme temperatures have become far more likely because of human-driven climate change.
The immediate cause of the current event is a weather pattern known as an omega block, which traps a large mass of hot air over the same region for an extended period. This prevents cooler air from moving in and allows temperatures to remain unusually high for several days.
What Happens Next?
Meteorologists expect the most intense heat to gradually weaken over the coming days. However, the transition may bring heavy thunderstorms and unstable weather conditions to parts of central and eastern Europe.
Authorities across the continent continue to advise residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and check on elderly family members and neighbors.
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