Between June 1 and September 15, there were 10,420 more deaths than usual for the period, the authorities said on Tuesday in Paris. That is an increase of 6.1 percent. During the three heat waves in summer there were even 16.7 percent more deaths than average. Older people aged 75 and over were particularly affected. Seven fatal accidents at work were also attributed to the extreme heat. The summer of 2022 was the second hottest in France since 1900, after the record summer of 2003.
The balance underlines the importance of preparing for the effects of heat waves in advance, the health authorities said. It also shows how necessary it is to further develop strategies for adapting to climate change in order to mitigate the consequences throughout the country. Heat waves are no longer exceptional and have a major impact on health.
Source: Nachrichten
