Deadly European heatwave: France reports nearly 1,000 deaths

Pars Today – As an unprecedented heatwave continues across Europe and new temperature records are set in several countries, French public health authorities have announced that extreme heat has claimed nearly 1,000 lives since the start of the current heatwave.

According to Pars Today, citing IRNA, France's Public Health Agency said on Sunday that the recent period of extreme heat has resulted in approximately 1,000 deaths across the country. Experts warned that the figure could rise further as medical data are finalized and additional death certificates are processed.

The agency said that many of the victims are elderly people, individuals with chronic illnesses, and others who are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Officials added that the prolonged heat has not only affected public health but has also placed significant pressure on hospitals, healthcare facilities, and emergency services.

This year's heatwave has affected large parts of Europe, with several countries recording new temperature highs.

In France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Poland, and several other European countries, temperatures have exceeded 40°C (104°F) in some areas, prompting local authorities to issue high-level heat warnings and public safety advisories.

In Germany, meteorologists have warned that unprecedented temperatures may still be recorded. Images from across the country show beaches and recreational areas crowded with people seeking relief from the intense heat, while the risk of wildfires has increased across large parts of southern and central Europe.

Experts have also warned that, beyond the rising death toll, the extreme heat is likely to have far-reaching consequences for agriculture, water resources, electricity generation, transportation, and the economies of European countries.