France reports 2,025 excess deaths amid June heatwave as Europe faces more extreme weather

France recorded an alarming 2,025 excess deaths during the last week of June 2026, coinciding with a record-breaking heatwave that gripped Europe. The French health ministry confirmed a 29% increase in deaths compared to the previous week, particularly among individuals aged 45 and older. This tragic statistic was announced on Friday as the nation braces for further extreme temperatures in the coming days.

Record Temperatures and Health Impact

The heatwave peaked on 24 June, marking the hottest day ever recorded in France, with temperatures soaring to nearly 41°C in Paris. Following this extreme weather, the Public Health France agency revealed that the mortality rate had surged, with deaths rising by 62% in the Paris region alone. Health Minister Stéphanie Rist warned that these figures might be an underestimate, indicating that actual mortality could be even higher.

According to reports, the heatwave also led to a significant rise in drowning incidents, with 72 drowning deaths recorded since mid-June. This includes numerous cases linked to individuals attempting to cool off during the extreme heat.

Wider European Context of Excess Mortality

France is not alone in facing the deadly consequences of this summer's heatwave. Neighboring Belgium experienced a staggering 1,222 excess deaths, representing a 39% increase over typical figures, with many victims aged 85 and older. The Belgian health ministry characterized the number of deaths during the heatwave as unprecedented.

Similarly, the Netherlands reported approximately 480 excess deaths during the same period, predominantly among the elderly. As temperatures approached 40°C, the impact of climate change on public health has become increasingly evident.

Future Weather Predictions and Alerts

As Europe continues to grapple with extreme heat, meteorologists predict that conditions will worsen. The BBC Weather service has issued warnings for a new wave of heat expected to affect parts of the UK and France. Forecasts indicate that temperatures could again reach 40°C in southern France, with cities like Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Agen facing peaks of 36°C to 37°C.

In response to the ongoing risk of wildfires, Météo-France has issued red alerts for forest fire risks in southern regions. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu reported that nearly 7,000 fires have ignited since the summer began, leading to the evacuation of nearly 3,000 people from affected areas.

As temperatures rise across Europe, many areas, including the Iberian Peninsula, are under alert for potential heatwaves, with predictions of temperatures exceeding 40°C in parts of Portugal and Spain.