French authorities have reported a sharp increase in deaths as the country experiences one of its most intense and prolonged heatwaves on record, with temperatures soaring well above seasonal averages.
Health officials said the extreme heat has particularly affected elderly people, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, and other vulnerable groups, prompting hospitals and emergency services to remain on high alert.
The government has activated emergency measures across several regions, including heat alerts, cooling centres, and public advisories urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and regularly check on vulnerable family members and neighbours.
Authorities warned that the heatwave has also increased the risk of wildfires, strained power supplies, and disrupted daily life in several parts of the country.
Meteorologists linked the unusually high temperatures to a broader pattern of increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves across Europe, with experts warning that climate change is making such extreme weather events more common.
