Deadly Heatwave in Europe: At Least 40 Drown in France Amid Record-Breaking Temperatures
June 23, Kathmandu – The ongoing severe heatwave across France and other parts of Europe has resulted in at least 40 deaths by drowning in unsafe swimming areas in France. Following an emergency meeting on Tuesday, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that most of those who died since last Thursday are young people. With temperatures expected to reach around 40 degrees Celsius across much of the country, the government described the incidents as a “tragic disaster.”
Sports Minister Marina Ferrari emphasized that swimming in unauthorized areas during the heatwave should not be considered a form of sporting activity. Furthermore, local officials in Carpentras, southeastern France, reported that two children aged two and four were found unconscious inside a vehicle outside their home; their deaths have been attributed to the heatwave.
In the Bordeaux region, three additional deaths were reported among individuals aged 80 to 95, attributed to health complications caused by the extreme heat. According to France’s meteorological agency, Météo-France, the nights from Monday to Tuesday marked the hottest on record since 1947, when record-keeping began. An average temperature of 21.6 degrees Celsius was recorded across 30 weather stations on Tuesday morning, surpassing the previous nighttime record of 21.4 degrees set on July 25, 2019.
The heatwave has shattered temperature records in numerous cities, including Bordeaux and Poitiers, while also placing significant strain on the power grid and public services. Red alerts have been issued in 54 regions lacking widespread air conditioning, prompting early school closures or revised school schedules to protect students. Other parts of Europe are likewise experiencing intense heat. The UK Met Office has issued a warning that temperatures could exceed 39 degrees Celsius in some areas over a four-day heatwave, potentially breaking the country’s record of 35.6 degrees Celsius set in June 1957 and 1976.
