Published on Jun. 23, 2026, 2:47 PM

Updated on Jun. 23, 2026, 3:19 PM

At least 40 people, mostly youths, have drowned while trying to escape the heat, according to French officials.

France and other Western European countries are currently facing a record-breaking heat wave. Hundreds of records were shattered on Monday as temperatures reached 44°C. The peak intensity of the heat is expected to maintain until Wednesday.

This heat wave has been a long-duration event, starting on June 17, and is reminiscent of past deadly heat waves, such as those from 1947, 1976, and 2003.

SEE ALSO: Europe swelters under heat wave, prompting crisis talks in France

While several countries have been in the heat’s tight grip, such as Spain and parts of the United Kingdom, France has been among the most impacted. Only about 20 per cent of households across the country have air conditioning, which makes the 40-degree heat incredibly difficult for most of the population to handle.

Translation: Bruno Mars fans waited in line for hours in 40°C heat to see his Paris concert.

Heat reaches its peak through Wednesday

Western regions of France have been facing some of the hottest temperatures from this heat event, with highs reaching 40-44°C on Monday and lasting through Wednesday.

122 all-time records and 332 monthly records were broken on Monday alone in France, such as: