France Sees Surge in Drowning Deaths Amid Record Heatwave


By Jaroslav Lukiv |


A man jumps into the Canal Saint‑Martin in Paris during a heatwave.
A man jumps into the water as people gather along the banks of the Canal Saint‑Martin in Paris, France. Photo: 29 July 2026

France has recorded 301 drownings since 19 June, a 14 % increase over 2025, officials say, linking the rise to persistent heatwaves.


Sports and Youth Minister Marina Ferrari announced on France Inter radio that the torrid temperatures have pushed more people into dangerous waters. She warned that many drownings occurred in canals and open water – areas that aren’t authorised or supervised for swimming – and that the elderly were especially vulnerable.


Heatwaves across France, Spain and Italy spurred widespread wildfires and massive flooding, Ferrari said, and the sudden immersion into colder water can trigger shock and overwhelm a person’s physical limits.


Minister Ferrari stressed that the government is working with regional authorities to improve swimming areas and make conditions safer. She urged the public to heed safety warnings, avoid illegal swimming spots, and stay aware of temperature‑related risks.


Read more about climate change driving Europe’s heatwaves


Related topics: Europe, Heatwaves, Wildfires, Climate