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Heatwave Drives Sharp Rise in Deaths and Prompts No-Confidence Bid in France

Preliminary death data suggest the toll is undercounted due to incomplete electronic death records.

Overview

  • France recorded a 29.1% rise in deaths during the week from 22 to 28 June, which Santé publique France said equals about 2,025 excess fatalities at the peak of the heatwave.
  • The agency also reported a 62% rise in deaths in the Paris region during the same week, concentrating the heaviest impact on the capital.
  • Officials warn published totals are preliminary because they rely on electronic death certificates that cover slightly more than half of deaths, so the real toll is likely higher.
  • Health minister Stéphanie Rist said deaths at home rose by 91% compared with the previous week and that increases were notable among people over 45 years old.
  • Green party deputies filed a no-confidence motion to be debated on July 6 to challenge the government’s handling of the crisis, but the far-right National Rally has refused to back it, making its success unlikely; forecasters also warn a possible third heatwave early next week that could add pressure to hospitals and power systems.