France records nearly 8,000 excess deaths during summer heatwaves

Wednesday 16 September 2026 - 22:22

By: Azzat Manal

France records nearly 8,000 excess deaths during summer heatwaves

France recorded thousands of excess deaths during periods of extreme heat this summer, according to preliminary figures released by the country’s public health authorities, highlighting the growing health impact of unusually high temperatures.

Santé publique France reported that approximately 8,000 excess deaths were recorded during several periods of intense heat since the beginning of summer 2026. The figures remain provisional and may be revised as additional mortality data become available.

The latest heat episode, which lasted from July 27 to August 20, was associated with 817 excess deaths across 79 monitored areas. This represented an increase of about 5% compared with the expected number of deaths for the period. Authorities have not yet determined how many of these additional deaths can be directly attributed to extreme heat.

The latest figures add to several earlier increases in mortality recorded during the summer. Authorities counted 5,764 excess deaths between June 17 and July 2, followed by another 1,243 between July 3 and July 20. An additional 95 deaths were recorded during a shorter period of intense heat from May 24 to May 28.

Public health officials stressed that these numbers should not be interpreted as a final estimate of deaths directly caused by heat. Mortality surveillance for heat-related episodes continues through September 15, and the available data will be updated as the monitoring process progresses.

Older people were particularly affected during the most recent heat episode. Nearly all of the recorded increase involved people aged 75 and above, with around 751 excess deaths reported among this age group. This differs from some earlier heatwaves, when mortality increases were also observed among younger age groups.

The figures come after France experienced an exceptionally hot summer. According to Météo-France, the national weather service, summer 2026 was the hottest in the country since records began in 1900, surpassing previous high-temperature summers including 2003 and 2022.

Heatwaves can place significant stress on the human body, particularly among older adults and people with existing health vulnerabilities. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can contribute to dehydration, cardiovascular complications and other medical emergencies, while extreme nighttime temperatures can make it more difficult for the body to recover from daytime heat.

French health authorities have repeatedly urged residents to take precautions during periods of extreme temperatures, including staying hydrated, limiting exposure to heat during the hottest hours and checking on vulnerable relatives and neighbors. Public health campaigns have become an increasingly important part of France’s response to recurring heatwaves.

The latest mortality figures also reinforce concerns about the relationship between climate change and extreme weather. Santé publique France has warned that climate change is increasing the likelihood of heatwaves that are more intense, longer-lasting and geographically widespread.

France is not alone in facing these challenges. Across Europe, rising temperatures have prompted governments and public health agencies to strengthen heat-warning systems, improve emergency preparedness and develop measures designed to protect vulnerable populations.

As heat extremes become more frequent, monitoring excess mortality is expected to remain an important tool for assessing the health consequences of a warming climate. French authorities will continue collecting data before producing a more complete assessment of the impact of the summer’s heat episodes.