France Records 7,307 Excess Deaths Amid Record Summer Heatwaves
According to Santé Publique France, the nation’s public health agency, there were 7,307 additional fatalities attributed to heatwaves during the summer. This figure comprises 300 deaths recorded in late May, 5,764 from June 17 to June 30, and 1,243 from July 2 to July 22. An analysis by Agence France-Presse revealed that there have been a historic 52 days of heatwaves since mid-June, including 14 consecutive days in June and 16 in July, with a current stretch of 22 days. The absence of air-conditioning in many regions exacerbates health issues, prompting residents in cities like Paris to rely on fans. The agency determines excess mortality by assessing daily death rates against historical data. The death toll could increase as the third heatwave persists, emphasizing the public health risks associated with extreme weather in France.
Key facts
- Santé Publique France reported 7,307 excess deaths during heatwaves this year.
- Excess deaths: 300 in late May, 5,764 from June 17-30, and 1,243 from July 2-22.
- France endured a record 52 heatwave days since mid-June.
- The three heatwaves lasted 14 days in June, 16 days in July, and 22 days starting in late July.
- The third heatwave had not been officially declared over as of Tuesday.
- Air-conditioning is scarce in many parts of France.
- Agence France-Presse conducted the analysis of heatwave days.
- The death toll is expected to rise as the final heatwave continues.
- The 52-day record is provisional pending the official end of the last heatwave.
- Paris was among affected cities, with residents using fans to cope.
Entities
Institutions
- Santé Publique France
- Agence France-Presse
Locations
- France
- Paris
- Place des Fêtes