France Heat Wave 2026 Triggers Over 5,700 Excess Deaths

From 17 June to 2 July 2026 France experienced an unprecedented heat wave. Public Health France reported a provisional excess mortality of 5,764 deaths, a 36 % increase over expected levels, the highest since the 2003 heat wave. The surge accounted for more than 5,700 additional deaths nationwide, with the Paris region alone seeing 1,999 excess deaths and the Hauts‑de‑France 424. The Pays de la Loire recorded roughly 1,550 excess deaths, making it the third‑most affected region. Half of the excess mortality occurred during the three hottest days, 25‑27 June, when temperatures topped 40 °C in many areas. The episode was the third longest in French records, lasting 16 days, equal to the 2003 August heat wave, though less intense than the preceding June heat wave that peaked at an ITN of 30 °C. Health officials noted an unusual rise in deaths among adults aged 45‑64, in addition to the usual spike among seniors. Forecasts warned of a possible fourth heat wave beginning late July, potentially extending into August, with temperatures again surpassing 40 °C in parts of the country.