French health officials estimate that the country’s historic June heat wave contributed to more than 5,700 excess deaths, according to preliminary research released Wednesday.
The heat wave, which gripped much of France from June 17 to July 2, coincided with 21,674 deaths from all causes in the affected regions, compared with an estimated 15,910 deaths that would have been expected under normal conditions, according to Public Health France. The agency estimated 5,764 excess deaths, a 36% increase above expected mortality, with more than half occurring between June 25 and June 27.
The Paris region was hit hardest, recording 1,999 excess deaths, roughly 80% more than would have been expected without the heat wave.
People ages 75 and older accounted for nearly two-thirds of the preliminary toll, with an estimated 3,719 excess deaths. Nearly half of all deaths occurred in hospitals, while about one-third occurred at home. The remaining deaths were largely reported in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.
France endured its hottest June period on record, with a nationwide average temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Overnight temperatures remained high, while daytime highs exceeded 104 Fahrenheit in many areas on June 24 and 25.
Public Health France cautioned that the figures are preliminary and will be refined after more comprehensive analyses later this year.
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“This excess mortality from all causes underscores the health impact linked to the remarkable intensity and duration of the population’s exposure to heat across mainland France, although it did not reach the levels of 2003,” the report said.
The deadly heat wave was driven by an “Omega block,” a weather pattern that traps hot air beneath a persistent high-pressure system for days. France was among several European countries affected by the early-summer heat wave. Britain, Italy, Switzerland, and Spain also experienced extreme temperatures, with the scorching weather disrupting transportation, forcing school closures, and prompting tourist attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, to temporarily close.