Heat wave claims over 1,000 lives in France
France is facing an unprecedented heat wave with extreme temperatures claiming lives across the country. Some of the deaths have occurred in hospitals and care facilities, where inadequate cooling has raised concerns.
The situation has sparked strong criticism over the country's preparedness.
Since 2003 I have worked in geriatrics in a major Paris hospital. Since that year, nothing has changed. I can tell you that.
Member of Public 01
We have never seen a heat wave like this. We have just experienced the hottest week ever recorded in France.
It is difficult to manage, of course, but the government did not handle it as it should have. They need a plan for the future, because there will be more heat waves.
They need to act now.
For example, they can install air conditioning in hospitals, schools, and other sensitive facilities and find solutions that can truly be effective.
Member of Public 02
In 2003, a heat wave caused one of the deadliest natural disasters in modern French history, claiming an estimated 15,000 lives across the country.
It prompted the government to introduce a national heatwave plan that included measures to improve preparedness in hospitals and care homes.
More than two decades later, many people remain critical of the authorities for failing to deliver on those promises.
We lived through the 2003 heat wave. We were told that things would be done, especially for elderly people, but nothing was done.
Hospitals are yet to have air conditioning.
I also think about children in schools without air conditioning.
Member of Public 03
It is serious to let people die in hospital.
The government should invest in everything necessary to allow people to be treated, because if these people are in hospital, it is to receive care, not to die from the heat.
Member of Public 04
For 20 years, nothing has changed.
There is enormous waste in public spending on things the state should not be spending money on.
There are many problems that remain unresolved.
Member of Public 05
Authorities continue to urge the public to protect vulnerable people and avoid exposure during the hottest hours of the day.
The heat wave in France has turned into a national tragedy, raising broader questions about the country's long-term adaptation to increasingly extreme climate conditions.
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