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France heat wave linked to 5,700 excess deaths, health officials say
Fox News • • world
Key Points:
- France experienced over 5,700 excess deaths during a historic summer heat wave from June 17 to July 2, marking the deadliest heat-related toll in more than 20 years, according to Public Health France.
- The heat wave saw temperatures exceeding 104°F in many regions, with the Paris area hardest hit, recording nearly 2,000 excess deaths—more than 80% above expected levels.
- Adults aged 75 and older accounted for about two-thirds of the excess deaths, highlighting the vulnerability of elderly populations during extreme heat events.
- The heat wave caused a surge in deaths across hospitals, private homes, and nursing homes, overwhelming funeral services in Paris, where some mortuaries reached capacity.
- Preliminary data also indicate that over 10,000 excess deaths occurred across Europe during the peak of the heat wave, with figures expected to be updated in the coming weeks.
