France heatwave history: Extreme temperature trends and the 2003 crisis

Data from Météo-France highlights nearly 75 years of extreme heat episodes in France. A visualization of these events shows varying levels of severity, duration, and peak intensity. The year 2003 remains the most significant episode due to its massive scale.

In August 2003, a deadly heatwave in France saw temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius, resulting in approximately 15,000 deaths, primarily among the elderly. Among the victims was Diana Mosley, a prominent figure of the Mitford family, who passed away in her Paris apartment during the ten-day period of intense heat.