France records around 1,000 excess deaths in heatwave, health agency says

France recorded roughly 1,000 excess deaths during a record-breaking heatwave that gripped much of western Europe, public health officials said Sunday.

Public Health France said the deaths had occurred since June 24, when temperatures surpassed 40C across large parts of the country. The agency cautioned that the figures were preliminary and likely an underestimate.

What are excess deaths and why do they matter during a heatwave?

Excess deaths measure how many more people died than would be expected based on historical averages for the same period. During a heatwave, this figure captures heat-related fatalities that may not be recorded as such on death certificates. France uses this metric to track the full human toll of extreme heat events.

Who was most affected by France's heatwave deaths?

People aged 65 and over accounted for 85% of the deaths, Public Health France said. Areas placed under red alert for heat were particularly badly affected. The agency said the sharpest increases were among people dying at home, especially in the Ile-de-France region, which includes Paris and its surrounding suburbs.

Why are isolated people at greater risk during a heatwave?

Public Health France said the figures underscored the need for solidarity toward people living alone or in deep isolation, including in densely populated urban areas. Elderly people living alone are among the most vulnerable during extreme heat because they are less likely to seek help or access cooling. The agency urged communities to check on isolated neighbors and relatives.

When did France's heatwave begin to ease?

Temperatures began to drop across France on Sunday after several days of extreme heat that pushed the mercury above 40C in many areas. The heat had moved eastward across Europe as France came out from under the worst of the conditions. Health authorities said monitoring would continue as the figures were still being consolidated.