France recorded more than 5,700 excess deaths during a historic early-summer heat wave, according to figures released by the public health agency Santé Publique France. This marks the country's deadliest heat-related toll in over two decades, underscoring the growing severity of extreme weather events linked to climate change across Europe.

Between 17 June and 2 July, health officials had expected around 15,910 deaths but instead recorded 21,674, resulting in 5,764 excess deaths, a figure 36% higher than anticipated. The prolonged spell of intense heat placed significant strain on France's healthcare system and highlighted the vulnerability of elderly and at-risk populations during extreme temperature events.