French authorities say seven people have died in connection with an intense early-summer heatwave that brought record-breaking temperatures across parts of the country on May 26.
Government spokesperson Maud Brégeon said the deaths were linked directly or indirectly to the extreme heat. According to reports, five of the deaths involved drownings as people attempted to cool off in rivers, lakes and coastal areas, while two others occurred during sporting events held in high temperatures.
According to reports, France recorded its hottest May temperatures since national records began, with temperatures reaching 37.1°C near Hossegor in southwestern France. Several regions were placed under orange heat alerts as authorities warned residents to avoid outdoor activity during peak temperatures and stay hydrated.
Health officials also raised concerns about increased pressure on emergency services and hospitals, particularly affecting elderly people and vulnerable communities. Meteorologists said the unusual heatwave was part of a wider weather system affecting large parts of western Europe, including Spain, Portugal and the United Kingdom.
