France is facing one of the most severe heatwaves in its history, with authorities confirming that at least 40 people have drowned while attempting to cool off in unsupervised swimming areas amid soaring temperatures across the country and much of Europe.
The deaths occurred over several days as extreme heat gripped France, where temperatures in many regions approached 40 degrees Celsius. French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu described the fatalities as a “tragic scourge,” noting that many of the victims were young people seeking relief from the intense heat.
Officials also linked the heatwave to other fatalities, including the deaths of two young children found unconscious in a car in southeastern France, while several elderly residents reportedly died from heat-related complications in the Bordeaux region.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warned that the ongoing heatwave poses serious health risks across Europe, urging people to protect vulnerable groups and take the conditions seriously as temperatures continue to rise.
France’s national weather agency, Meteo-France, announced that the country recorded its hottest night since records began in 1947, with average overnight temperatures reaching unprecedented levels. Multiple cities, including Bordeaux and Poitiers, also broke local temperature records.
The heatwave has placed major pressure on public services and infrastructure. More than 50 regions in France were placed under red heatwave alerts, while schools shortened schedules or closed early to protect students. Major landmarks in Paris, including the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower, reduced operating hours because of the dangerous temperatures.
The extreme heat has extended across Europe. In the United Kingdom, forecasters warned temperatures could exceed 39 degrees Celsius, potentially breaking long-standing June records, while dozens of schools in England announced temporary closures. Spain also faced unusually high temperatures, including forecasts of 40 degrees Celsius in the northern city of San Sebastian, while Italy issued maximum-level heat alerts for several cities.
Weather experts attributed the conditions to an “Omega block” weather system that has trapped hot air from the Sahara over Europe, creating prolonged heat with little wind or relief. Climate specialists warned that climate change is intensifying heatwaves and extreme weather events, contributing to higher temperatures and increased risks across the continent.
