Seven people have died in France due to the extreme heat wave affecting Western Europe. Five of the victims lost their lives by drowning.

In France, a wave of extreme heat has led to seven deaths, announced government spokesperson Maud Bregeon. Five of the victims died by drowning, while two deaths were directly attributed to the high temperatures. The meteorological service Météo-France reported a record temperature of 37.1 degrees Celsius near Hossegor, the hottest May day in history, with a national average of 24.4 degrees Celsius. The United Kingdom also recorded a record temperature of 34.8 degrees Celsius at Kew Gardens. In Spain, temperatures of 36-38 degrees Celsius are expected to persist, and in Italy, authorities have imposed restrictions on activities conducted in the sun. The heatwave has caused many people to seek refuge on beaches, although lifeguards are not present until July. Another 16 people have been hospitalized in France, 10 of whom are in serious condition.