France reports nearly 9,000 certified deaths during peak heat wave week
European countries are assessing the human impact of the late June heat wave after France, Belgium and Poland reported increased mortality and weather-related fatalities linked to extreme temperatures.
In France, preliminary data from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE) showed nearly 9,000 deaths were electronically certified between June 22 and June 28, including 2,025 more deaths than expected during the peak of the heat wave.
Health Minister Stephanie Rist said the figures remain provisional, noting that electronic death certificates account for about 60% of deaths nationwide and the final toll could be higher. Much of the country experienced temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius during the period.
Belgium reviews emergency response
In Belgium, Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said the country's 112 emergency hotline "did not function properly" during last week's heat wave and called on Interior Minister Bernard Quintin to address the issue.
The remarks came after reports of 1,222 excess deaths between June 18 and June 29. Vandenbroucke said hospitals and residential care facilities had been prepared for the extreme temperatures but stressed that protecting elderly, socially isolated and vulnerable people requires broader societal action.
He also requested an evaluation of the government's response by the Risk Management Group, with public health officials scheduled to meet next week.
The reported rise in deaths has intensified political criticism, with opposition figures calling for a comprehensive national heat wave strategy, including more cooling spaces and stronger protection for vulnerable groups.
Drownings increase in Poland
In Poland, authorities said at least 70 people have drowned since June 1 as record temperatures prompted thousands to seek relief in rivers, lakes and other swimming areas.
Police said most incidents occurred at unguarded locations, where victims either underestimated water conditions or entered the water to cool off during the heat. Authorities again urged the public to use designated bathing areas, avoid alcohol and closely supervise children.
The country's meteorological institute, IMGW, issued successive heat and storm warnings after temperatures reached a record 40.5 degrees Celsius in Slubice on June 28, followed by severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail and strong winds across large parts of the country.
Source:AA
