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France Heat Wave Deaths Surge by a Third
3 Jul
Summary
- Nearly a third more deaths occurred in France during a record heat wave last month.
- Public Health France reported over 2,000 additional deaths in one week.
- Mortuaries in Paris reportedly struggled to store bodies due to the surge.
France registered a significant increase in deaths, with fatalities surging by nearly a third during the record heat wave experienced last month. Public Health France released figures indicating at least 2,025 more deaths occurred between June 22 and June 28 compared to the week prior.
This period saw unprecedented high temperatures across the country, shattering previous records for daytime and nighttime highs in many locations. The surge in mortality was particularly pronounced in private homes, which saw a 91% increase in deaths week-on-week.
Care homes and hospitals also reported substantial rises in deaths, with increases of 37% and nearly 20%, respectively. The Paris region was disproportionately affected, experiencing a nearly 63% rise in deaths.
Emergency departments, like the one at Paris-Saclay Hospital, reported a sharp influx of patients suffering from heat-related conditions such as heart attacks and kidney malfunctions. Funeral directors in Paris faced immense challenges, with some mortuaries reporting they were full and unable to accept more bodies before burial or cremation.
