Heatwaves in France: nearly 5,400 deaths a year and inequalities in heat exposure

Two studies reported by France Info warn about the health impact of heatwaves in France, highlighting greater risks in poorly insulated homes and deprived areas. As Europe braces for a record June heatwave, with temperatures in some regions expected to approach 40°C, 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 adequately taken into account by the public authorities. Pointing out that the effects of heat go far beyond cases of 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%. Deprived neighbourhoods particularly exposed Oxfam also finds that global warming is exacerbating inequality. The most disadvantaged areas are more severely affected, with excess mortality estimated at 31% compared with the wealthiest areas in the summer of 2025. By contrast, residents of the 20% most affluent urban neighbourhoods are up to ten times less exposed to the risks posed by extreme heat. The Housing Foundation shares this assessment in its study on summer energy poverty. It reports that around two-thirds (66%) of people in France say they struggle to cope with the heat in their homes and that 40% of homes are not fully fitted with shutters, even though these are essential to prevent overheating, and it also notes that working-class neighbourhoods are the most affected. In these neighbourhoods, residents often face multiple vulnerabilities. They are exposed to very dense urban environments, with materials that intensify heat and a lack of green spaces. On top of that, they often live in boiler-like homes, are on average in poorer health and may have jobs that are more exposed to 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 energy-efficiency renovations in housing. The Housing Foundation is calling for the Zero boiler-like homes bill, backed by more than 150 MPs, to be put on the parliamentary agenda and proposes launching a national programme to install shutters and fans by 2040. The organisation is also calling for the Green Fund devoted to adapting public spaces to climate change to be strengthened and for the creation of high heat schemes, modelled on winter plans, to better protect the most vulnerable, particularly rough sleepers.