Rise in number of drownings in France due to heatwave
Over 100 people have died since June 1, including 19 children
River swimming in particular has proved dangerous for children
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More than 100 people have died by drowning in France since June 1 - a sharp rise compared to last year, according to the public health agency Sant茅 publique France (SPF).
The increase in drowning deaths is thought to be due to the record-breaking heatwave that has encouraged more people than usual to rivers, lakes and beaches to cool off, says the SPF in a report published on July 11.
Note that 鈥榙rowning鈥� in France does not necessarily result in a death, but records someone struggling in a body of water who needed to be rescued.
Between June 1 and July 2, 429 drownings were recorded nationwide, with 109 fatalities.
This represents a 95% rise in total drownings and a 58% rise in fatal cases compared to the same period in 2024, according to the SPF report.
The rise 鈥渁ffects all age groups鈥�, the report says, but is particularly marked among children.
Rivers danger for children
Drownings in children aged 0鈥�5 are up by 155%, and in those aged 6鈥�12 by 153%. In total, 19 minors died by drowning during the period, compared to eight last year.
River swimming in particular has proved dangerous.
Of the 19 children and teenagers who died, 15 were in rivers, up from three in 2024. Most were over the age of 10. Among adults, however, more deaths occurred at sea.
The figures also show a significant increase in fatalities among 13-17 year olds.
Nearly half of all drownings in this age group were fatal (48%), compared to 19% last year. For all age groups, deaths were more likely in rivers and lakes, which accounted for 60% of fatalities.
The June heatwave was among the most intense ever recorded in France, +3.3C hotter than average for the season.
Temperatures reached 35C across much of the country with red heatwave alerts in 16 departments from July 1-3.
Weather conditions in June 2024 had been close to seasonal norms, with higher-than-average rainfall.
The contrast, SPF notes, shows the strong link between summer temperatures and water-related risks.
SPF warns that more cases are likely unless preventive measures are taken.
The agency reminds parents to monitor young children while swimming, and to enter the water with them.
For adults, it urges caution when bathing alone, particularly if tired or in poor health. Alcohol and unsafe swimming spots are also flagged as key risks.
