France Heatwave Deaths 2026: 817 Excess Deaths Reported
France Heatwave Deaths 2026 have risen again after the country recorded at least 817 excess deaths during a period of extreme heat between July 27 and August 20, according to France’s national public health agency.
The latest figure adds to thousands of excess deaths recorded during earlier heatwave periods this summer. The agency reported 5,764 excess deaths between June 17 and July 2 and another 1,243 between July 3 and July 20.
The latest data brings the reported total to nearly 8,000 excess deaths since June. The overall figure remains provisional because health authorities are still collecting and reviewing mortality data from the summer.
People aged 75 and older were particularly affected. At least 751 of the 817 excess deaths recorded between July 27 and August 20 involved people in this age group, according to the French health ministry.
The term “excess deaths” refers to deaths above the number normally expected during the same period. The figures include deaths from all causes, so they do not mean that every recorded death was directly caused by heat.
France experienced several prolonged heatwaves during the summer. The national weather service has described 2026 as an exceptionally hot year, while health authorities have continued monitoring the effects of high temperatures across the country.
The latest figures highlight the health risks associated with prolonged extreme heat, particularly for older people and other vulnerable groups. French authorities have continued to promote heat-prevention measures as temperatures rise.
A final assessment of summer heat-related mortality is expected after authorities complete the collection and analysis of the available data.
