The flames of Europe… 3,700 deaths in France, the Netherlands, and Belgium due to the heat wave

France, the Netherlands and Belgium recorded an additional 3,700 deaths during the June heatwave, which sent temperatures soaring across Europe, while authorities warned that the numbers were preliminary and could rise.

Experts said that the heat wave, which lasted approximately from June 20 to 28, was the worst in European history, as it caused disruption to electricity generation, damaged infrastructure and burdened health care systems.

In France, the Public Health Authority announced today, Friday, that the number of deaths had increased by 30% in the country during the week from June 22 to 28, and by 62% in the capital, Paris alone, at the height of the exceptional heat wave that struck the country.

The French Health Authority reported that the new increase was 29.1%, equivalent to 2,025 additional deaths compared to the previous week, indicating that this number is an underestimate.

According to French Minister of Health Stephanie Rest, there is a noticeable increase in deaths among those over the age of 45.

The 30% percentage reflects the magnitude of the health repercussions of the heat wave that struck France for approximately 10 days, including 3 days that witnessed the highest temperatures ever recorded in the country.

On Thursday, stores witnessed stampedes and fights after about 200,000 fans and air conditioners were put up for sale.