France reports 29% rise in deaths during record heatwave

France experienced a nearly 30 percent spike in deaths during a record-breaking heatwave last month, according to the country's national public health agency. The agency's latest data, released on July 3, estimates there were 2,025 more deaths during the week of June 22 to June 28 than in the previous week, representing a 29.1 percent increase.

Officials from Santé publique France cautioned that the figures are based on incomplete data and that the true mortality toll is likely higher. The agency stated the initial count of 8,973 deaths for that week is only partial and that the final number will rise as more information is compiled. The death toll has already doubled from a preliminary estimate of at least 1,000 additional deaths issued just days earlier.

The historic heatwave shattered temperature records across France, with many cities and towns experiencing their hottest-ever days. The surge in mortality was most pronounced among people over the age of 65, who accounted for 85 percent of the excess deaths, though adults aged 45 to 64 were also affected. All regions of the country reported an increase.

The Paris region was the hardest hit, suffering a nearly 63 percent...