Heatwaves in France: around 5,400 deaths a year and unequal exposure to heat
By euronews Published on 18/06/2026 - 9:37 GMT+2•Updated ...
By euronews
Published on 18/06/2026 - 9:37 GMT+2•Updated 11:45
As Europe braces for a record June heatwave, with temperatures that could approach 40°C in some regions, two studies reported by France Info highlight the health consequences of heatwaves in France.
According to an Oxfam study on the impact of climate change on health, heat is thought to be responsible for around 5,400 deaths a year in the country. The NGO warns of a genuine "public health emergency" that is still not being sufficiently taken into account by the public authorities.
Pointing out that the effects of heat go far beyond dehydration among older people, Oxfam notes that the risk of dying from a heart attack rises by 7% during heatwave episodes, with mortality twice as high among women on the hottest days. When these episodes last for more than a week, the risk of acute kidney failure increases by 70%.
Disadvantaged neighbourhoods particularly exposed
Oxfam also shows that global warming is exacerbating inequalities. The most deprived areas are likely to be hit harder, with excess mortality in summer 2025 estimated at 31% compared with the wealthiest areas. By contrast, residents of the wealthiest 20% of urban neighbourhoods are up to ten times less exposed to the risks posed by extreme heat.
The Housing Foundation reaches the same conclusion in its study on summer energy poverty. The report reveals that around two thirds (66%) of people in France say they struggle with the heat in their homes and that 40% of dwellings are not "fully fitted with shutters, which are essential to prevent overheating", and notes that working-class neighbourhoods are the most affected.
In these neighbourhoods, residents are often exposed to several factors that increase their vulnerability. They live in very dense urban environments, with "materials that exacerbate the heat" and "a lack of green spaces".
They also often live in homes described as "kettles", are on average "in poorer health", and may have "jobs that are more exposed to the heat".
Public authorities urged to better protect the population
In light of these findings, the two organisations are calling on the public authorities to speed up the energy-efficient renovation of housing.
The Housing Foundation is calling for the bill "Zero kettle homes", backed by more than 150 MPs, to be placed on the parliamentary agenda, and proposes launching a national programme to install shutters and fans by 2040.
The organisation is also urging an increase in the Green Fund dedicated to climate adaptation in public spaces, and the creation of "grand chaud" extreme-heat schemes, modelled on winter emergency plans, to better protect the most vulnerable people, particularly those who are homeless.
