France's public health authority reported 2,025 excess deaths during the peak of the late-June heatwave, concentrated in the week of June 22 to June 28, and said the figure is probably an underestimate. Officials said deaths surged nearly 30% during the hottest week, with most victims elderly or frail, and warned the toll may rise as reporting is still incomplete. Le Monde noted the data remain provisional and that health agencies are continuing to refine counts. Forecasters warned parts of Europe face further extreme temperatures in the coming days, keeping pressure on hospitals and local authorities in France.
