France: Over 8,000 dead following events related to the heatwave in summer 2026

The French health agency reported 817 additional deaths between July 27 and August 20 during an extreme heatwave. This brings the total to 7,824 deaths since mid-June, with the vast majority of victims aged 75 and over. A red heat alert was declared in 35 departments, and Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu banned alcohol consumption at public events.

France's national health agency published updated data on excess mortality in summer 2026, including 817 additional deaths recorded between July 27 and August 20. This figure adds to 5,764 deaths from June 17 to July 2 and 1,243 deaths from July 3 to July 20, totaling 7,824 deaths since mid-June. The vast majority of the deceased were aged 75 and over. The health agency emphasized that the figure includes all deaths in the relevant periods, regardless of the direct cause of death, and is based on death certificates issued during those periods. A red heat alert was declared in 35 departments, along with an orange alert in dozens more, as temperatures reached 39–40°C and in some places 41°C. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu banned alcohol consumption at 'Music Day' festivals and other public events in the 35 areas under red alert, an unusual step aimed at reducing risk at mass gatherings. In Paris, authorities ordered parks to remain open around the clock. The report notes that Europe experienced more extreme warming this year than any other continent due to climate change.