France records around 1,000 excess deaths during record heatwave
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France recorded around 1,000 more deaths than expected during a record-breaking heatwave that gripped much of the country, according to the country's public health agency.
Public Health France said the excess deaths had been recorded since June 24, based on preliminary data.
"Since June 24, approximately 1,000 additional deaths have been observed compared to the deaths recorded in previous months," the agency said in a statement.
The agency said regions placed under the highest red heat alert were the worst affected. People aged 65 and above accounted for 85 per cent of the excess deaths.
The largest increase in fatalities was recorded among people who died at home, particularly in the Ile-de-France region, which includes Paris and its surrounding suburbs.
Public Health France said the findings underscored the need for greater support for elderly and isolated people, especially in densely populated urban areas.
"This observation serves as a reminder of the need for measures of solidarity toward people who are isolated or experiencing profound loneliness, including in highly urbanised areas," the agency said.
Officials stressed that the figures are preliminary and could underestimate the final toll.
The heatwave, which saw temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius in many parts of France, eased on Sunday after several days of extreme heat across western Europe.