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France has recorded more than 5,700 excess deaths during its historic summer heat wave, marking the country’s deadliest heat-related toll in more than two decades, Public Health France announced Wednesday.
Between June 17 and July 2, the agency expected 15,910 deaths but instead recorded 21,674. The difference — 5,764 excess deaths — was 36% higher than what would have been expected.
During the heat wave, temperatures climbed well above 104 degrees Fahrenheit in many parts of the country, Public Health France said.
“This unprecedented event, characterized by its early onset, intensity, and duration, exposed almost the entire population to extreme heat during a period that was still largely dedicated to school and work activities,” the agency said.
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Tourists enjoy cooling off at a public water fountain in Paris, Friday, June 26, 2026. (Christophe Ena)
Deaths from all causes increased across hospitals, private homes and nursing homes during the heat wave.
The agency’s analysis included people ages 15 and older, with mortality increasing beginning at age 45. Adults 75 and older accounted for roughly two-thirds of the provisional death toll, representing at least 3,719 excess deaths.
The Paris region was hit hardest, recording 1,999 excess deaths — more than 80% above what would have been expected without the heat wave, according to the agency.
Public Health France said 2026 recorded the country’s highest excess mortality linked to a heat wave since 2003. The National Institute of Health and Medical Research estimated that roughly 15,000 more people died compared to the usual mortality for that time of year.
Tourists cool off at a public water fountain in Paris, Friday, June 26, 2026. (Christophe Ena)
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This year, the hottest days occurred on June 24 and June 25, when the national average temperature reached 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Peak temperatures also climbed above 104 degrees in many areas.
More than half of the excess deaths — about 56% — occurred during or immediately after the most intense stretch of the heat wave between June 25 and June 27.
Officials also said more than 10,000 excess deaths were reported across Europe during the peak of the heat wave, though the preliminary figures are expected to be updated in the coming weeks.
People cool off in a fountain in Paris during a major heat wave. (Abdul Saboor/Reuters)
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According to The Associated Press, funeral directors in Paris said they were inundated by the surge in bodies awaiting burial or cremation, with some mortuaries reaching capacity and turning down new arrivals.
Health officials noted that the excess mortality estimate includes deaths from all causes that occurred during the heat wave. The figures remain provisional and will continue to be refined in the coming weeks.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
