France has recorded more than 5,700 excess deaths during its historic summer heat wave, marking the country's deadliest heat-related toll in more than two decades, Public Health France announced Wednesday.

Between June 17 and July 2, the agency registered 21,674 deaths, which was 5,764 more than the expected 15,910 deaths for that period. This represents a 36% increase in mortality.

During the heat wave, temperatures in many parts of the country climbed well above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). Public Health France described the event as unprecedented due to its early onset, intensity, and duration, exposing nearly the entire population to extreme heat during a period still largely dedicated to school and work.

The increase in deaths from all causes was observed across hospitals, private homes, and nursing homes. The agency's analysis, which included individuals aged 15 and older, indicated that mortality began increasing at age 45, with adults aged 75 and older accounting for approximately two-thirds of the provisional death toll, totaling at least 3,719 excess deaths.

The Paris region was particularly affected, reporting 1,999 excess deaths, which is more than 80% above the expected number without the heat wave.

Public Health France noted that 2026 recorded the highest excess mortality linked to a heat wave in France since 2003. At that time, the National Institute of Health and Medical Research estimated that roughly 15,000 more people died than usual for that time of year.

This year, the hottest days were June 24 and June 25, with a national average temperature reaching 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). Peak temperatures exceeded 104 degrees Fahrenheit in numerous areas. More than half of the excess deaths, about 56%, occurred during or immediately after the most intense period of the heat wave, from June 25 to June 27.

Preliminary figures indicate that over 10,000 excess deaths were reported across Europe during the peak of the heat wave, though these numbers are expected to be updated. Funeral directors in Paris reported being overwhelmed by the surge in bodies awaiting burial or cremation, with some mortuaries reaching capacity.

Health officials emphasized that the excess mortality estimate encompasses deaths from all causes that occurred during the heat wave. The figures remain provisional and will be further refined in the coming weeks.