At least 18 dead in France as heatwave shatters temperature records in Europe
Related from 2025: Extreme heatwave hits Europe as temperatures soar above 40C in holiday hotspots
A severe heatwave across Europe has resulted in at least 18 deaths in France, including two children who died after being left in a hot car, three elderly individuals, and 13 people who drowned while trying to cool off.
Record-breaking temperatures were observed in several French cities, with Bordeaux reaching 41.9°C and Poitiers 41.2°C, while Paris was expected to hit its highest June temperature at 38.4°C.
The heatwave, described as an “Omega block” drawing hot air from North Africa, is causing temperatures 5 to 10 degrees above normal across the continent, with Spain expecting 40°C in San Sebastian.
The UK’s Met Office predicted temperatures could exceed 39°C, potentially breaking the June record of 35.6°C, while Italy issued red alerts for 12 cities due to the extreme heat.
Experts link the intensified heatwaves and storms to climate change, noting Europe is warming at more than double the global rate, leading to increased strain on infrastructure and impact on wildlife.
