PARIS: More than 2,000 people have died in France during the past week as an intense heatwave swept across much of Europe, France’s health minister said.
According to the minister, the death toll in France has reached 2,025, with officials warning that the number could rise as authorities continue to assess the impact of the extreme temperatures.
The minister said people older than 12 years accounted for the highest number of deaths.
The heatwave has affected several European countries. According to reports, at least 3,700 people died across France, Belgium and the Netherlands over the past week.
Belgium reported about 1,200 heat-related deaths, while the Netherlands recorded 480 deaths linked to record-breaking temperatures and prolonged extreme heat.
Health authorities across Europe have urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak daytime temperatures and check on elderly and vulnerable people as unusually high temperatures persist.
Earlier, Shoppers in France scrambled to buy fans and portable air conditioners during an intense heatwave, with scuffles breaking out at several supermarkets as demand for cooling equipment surged.
A major French supermarket chain announced that it would offer 200,000 fans and portable air conditioners for sale nationwide, prompting long lines outside stores before opening.
At a store in Nanterre, west of Paris, more than 100 customers rushed inside when the doors opened. Witnesses reported arguments and pushing as shoppers competed for the limited supply, with only about 10 people able to purchase a fan or portable air conditioner.
At another store, shelves were emptied within minutes, and disputes reportedly broke out over the last remaining units.
The rush comes as much of Europe continues to endure a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several countries.
In Spain, authorities reported 1,029 heat-related deaths during June, the highest number recorded for the month since 2015.
The extreme heat has prompted health officials across Europe to urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures and take extra precautions to protect vulnerable populations.
