France Records 29% Rise in Deaths During Record Heatwave Week
France's public health agency reported a 29% increase in deaths during the peak week of a record heatwave last month, with at least 2,000 more deaths than the previous week, according to preliminary data released Friday.
Public Health France said the death toll from June 22 to June 28 reached 8,973, compared to 6,948 deaths in the week of June 15 to June 21. The difference of 2,025 deaths is considered excess mortality from all causes, affecting all age groups. The agency cautioned that the numbers are incomplete and the final count is likely higher.
The heatwave, which shattered temperature records across France and other parts of Europe, led to a surge in hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses such as heart attacks, dehydration, and kidney failure, according to Dr. Nicolas Gonzales, head of the emergency department at Paris-Saclay Hospital.
Deaths in private homes saw a particularly sharp increase of 91% week-on-week, while care homes for the elderly reported a 37% rise and hospitals a nearly 20% increase. The Paris region was hit hardest, with a 63% increase in deaths from the previous week.
Funeral services in Paris have struggled to accommodate the influx of bodies, with some mortuaries reaching capacity, according to reports.
The health agency noted that its figures are based on incomplete data and the true death toll will be higher. The preliminary estimate has doubled since an earlier report last Sunday, which covered only three of the hottest days.
