France heatwave fuels ventilator shortage, AC controversy and political criticism

An intense heatwave across France has caused a surge in excess deaths – over 2,000 reported during the peak six‑day period – and provoked sharp criticism of the government's response. Officials such as Marine Tondelier (Ecologists) and Clémence Guetté have denounced the perceived lack of preparation, while Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez defended the crisis cells that were activated.

The extreme temperatures have triggered a consumer rush for cooling devices. Lidl stores in the Paris region saw crowds break through doors and fights break out as shoppers scrambled for air‑conditioners. Large retailers reported record sales: Leclerc sold 700 000 fans and 60 000 AC units in three weeks; Carrefour moved more than 30 000 units in a single day; Fnac Darty sold around 10 000 fans per day. Between 15 June and 28 June, NielsenIQ recorded 1.8 million fans and 160 000 air‑conditioners sold nationwide – accounting for about 60 % of fan sales and 57 % of AC sales for the year.

The sudden demand has driven prices up sharply. The consumer association Que Choisir reported a 46 % rise in average fan prices since mid‑June, with some retailers allegedly inflating prices by up to 37 %. Politically, the issue has become a campaign theme ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally calls for a €23 billion interest‑free loan scheme to equip schools and hospitals with AC, while the Greens and the left are divided over environmental concerns. A parliamentary question lodged on 8 July urged the minister to present a concrete plan for public services amid the heatwave.