In brief
Since June 19, France has seen 301 drownings, a 14% rise compared with last year, officials say. Ministers blame prolonged heatwaves and risky swimming in unregulated water bodies. The spike follows large wildfires across France, Spain and Italy. Authorities are tightening safety measures in public pools and canals, while warning the elderly about sudden water immersion shock.
France has recorded 301 drownings since 19 June, officials say.
Sports and Youth Minister Marina Ferrari told France Inter that the toll has risen 14 percent from last year, attributing the spike to prolonged heatwaves.
The country, alongside Spain and Italy, has suffered from extreme heat, leading to wildfires that scorched thousands of hectares.
Minister Ferrari warned that many deaths come from swimmers venturing into unsupervised or unlicensed waters, including canals and open‑water pools.
She noted that refreezing water on hot days can trigger sudden shock and that individuals, especially the elderly, may overestimate their ability to swim.
The government is coordinating with regional authorities to enhance swimming areas and improve safety measures.
