Heatwave deaths in France linked to inadequate housing

Inadequate housing is contributing to thousands of deaths during heatwaves in France. According to a provisional report from Santé publique France, there were 7,300 excess deaths recorded between late May and July 22 during periods of intense heat.

Medical professionals, including Dr. Sébastien Adnot in Carpentras, report that many elderly patients are dying at home because their residences lack proper insulation or cooling systems. These 'kettle-like' homes, often located on top floors in urban areas or within social housing, fail to protect occupants from temperatures that can exceed 30 to 32 degrees Celsius indoors.

Advocates from the Fondation pour le logement des défavorisés have warned the state about the vulnerability of low-income neighborhoods, noting that poorly ventilated and unshaded apartments significantly multiply the risk of heat-related mortality.