Deadly Heatwave Sweeps Across Europe, Five Die in France Including Two Children
PARIS, June 23, 2026 — Large parts of Europe are experiencing an intense heatwave, with France reporting five deaths linked to extreme temperatures, including two young children. Authorities also confirmed that 13 people drowned while swimming during the hot weather.
According to a British news agency, the central French city of Poitiers recorded a temperature of 41.2 degrees Celsius, breaking a 78-year-old heat record. In the western city of Bordeaux, temperatures climbed to 41.9 degrees Celsius, surpassing the previous record set in August last year.
The severe heat has forced the closure of several schools across France, while others have adjusted operating hours. Multiple train services have also been suspended due to the extreme weather conditions.
In the southeastern French town of Carpentras, two children aged two and four were found unconscious in a vehicle parked outside a home during the heatwave. Emergency responders attempted to save them, but both children later died. Authorities said the exact cause of death is still under investigation, although extreme heat is believed to have been a major factor.
Three elderly individuals also died in separate incidents linked to the intense temperatures across France.
Meanwhile, 13 people drowned while swimming in pools and other water locations during the hot weather. French authorities have urged the public to swim only in supervised areas and to follow safety guidelines.
In the United Kingdom, the national weather service has warned that June temperature records could be broken this week. Red heat warnings have been issued for parts of England and Wales, where temperatures are expected to reach as high as 38 degrees Celsius.
A red warning indicates a risk to life and the possibility of major disruptions to electricity supplies, road transport, and railway services.
Spain, Italy, and Belgium have also issued heatwave alerts as extreme temperatures continue to affect much of Europe.
