Heatwave claims 1,500 lives in France

(Patria) – Nearly 1,500 people have lost their lives in France due to the heatwaves that affected Europe during the summer months, the country's health ministry reported.  

The number represents one tenth of the tragic outcome of the heatwave that hit France in 2003, when about 15,000 of its inhabitants lost their lives.

Half of that number are people over the age of 75, while 10 people died at workplaces exposed to weather conditions such as construction, agriculture, etc.

The heatwave in 2003 lasted for 20 days. This year, above-average summer temperatures lasted for a total of 18 days in two separate periods, but France managed to reduce the mortality rate by 10 thanks to preventive measures.

The Ministry of Health says that France must strategically adapt to climate change, as hot summers can be expected to recur and intensify.

Similar situations occurred in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, with slightly lower but still high temperatures in the rest of Europe.

The Euronews portal writes that a record was set in France this summer on June 28 in the southeastern town of Vérargues, where 46 C was recorded.