Amman, Aug. 21 (Petra)-- France's health authorities on Friday reported a tragic toll from the heatwaves that swept across the country during the summer of 2026, with around 7,300 excess deaths recorded from mid-June through the end of July.

The French public health agency, Santé publique France, said that 1,243 excess deaths were recorded between July 3 and 22 alone, compared with the average for previous years. The vast majority of the victims were elderly people, with those aged over 75 accounting for three-quarters of the total.

However, the reports confirmed that the heatwave affected people across all age groups, particularly those aged 45 and above, highlighting the severity of the climate's impact even among groups previously considered less vulnerable during heatwaves.

The announcement came as a third heatwave continued to affect several parts of Europe, with authorities warning that the final death toll could rise after the summer season ends.

//Petra// MF