France Records 1,000 Excess Deaths During Severe Heatwave

France has recorded 1,000 excess deaths during the severe heatwave sweeping Europe, according to public health agency Sante Publique. The agency said Sunday the true figure is likely higher, with most fatalities involving older people. Officials expect the mortality count to rise as more data comes in on deaths in care homes and private residences.

The heatwave, which began June 20, has been described by scientists as the worst ever recorded in Europe, a region warming faster than the global average. It has shattered temperature records, disrupted power generation, and damaged infrastructure across the continent.

Heat Eases In France But Effects Linger

The extreme heat has diminished in most of France, though parts of the northeast remain under a heatwave advisory as conditions shift eastward. Health Minister Stephanie Rist warned the heatwave’s health impact could linger for up to 10 days after temperatures drop. “The episode is not finished,” she told BFM.

Sante Publique said while people aged 65 and older were hit hardest, the extreme heat affected all age groups across the population.