health
40 drowning deaths reported in France as Europe swelters in heat wave
Updated on: June 23, 2026 / 7:40 PM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- France reported 40 drowning deaths in the past week due to a severe heat wave.
- Record-breaking temperatures are affecting multiple European countries, including France, Spain, and the UK.
- The heat wave has led to disruptions in schools, public transportation, and tourist attractions.
- Human-caused climate change is linked to the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events.
- Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average, with significant heat-related mortality.
- Spain is experiencing extreme heat alerts, with temperatures expected to reach over 111 degrees Fahrenheit in some regions.
- The UK has issued red extreme heat warnings, anticipating potential record-breaking temperatures.
- The current heat wave is noted for its early arrival and intensity, drawing comparisons to the deadly 2003 heat wave.