At least 18 dead in France, including two children in hot car, as Europe bakes

Live updates

1. 1d ago

   France Heatwave Death Toll Rises as Child Fatalities Increase

   At least 18 people have died in France during a record-breaking heatwave. Four toddlers have died in hot cars, including two brothers in Carpentras. Scientists describe the current hot spell as the worst ever.

   What's confirmed:

   • At least 18 people died in France during the heatwave.
   • Two brothers, 4-year-old Kassim Benouali and 2-year-old Sadek, died after overheating in a car in Carpentras.
   • A 3-year-old boy died after being trapped in a hot car.
   • Nearly half of the 850 largest cities in the region face unprecedented heat stress.
   • Paris recorded temperatures above 40C for the first time in 150 years.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Temperatures surged to 44C in France.
   • A manslaughter investigation was opened after two children were found unresponsive in a car on their home driveway.
   confidence 90%
2. 5d ago

   Heatwave Kills At Least 18 in France as Europe Temperatures Surge

   A severe heatwave has caused at least 18 deaths in France, including two children aged 2 and 4 found in a family car. More than half of France is under red alerts as temperatures approach or exceed 40C. Authorities have restricted outdoor sports and public alcohol consumption to manage the crisis.

   What's confirmed:

   • At least 18 people died in France during the heatwave.
   • Two children, aged 2 and 4, died after being left in a hot car.
   • More than half of France is under red alerts due to extreme heat.
   • France has restricted outdoor sports and public alcohol consumption.
   • European temperatures have approached or exceeded 40C.
   • Schools in France closed or modified their timetables.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Temperatures are forecast to reach 44C.
   • A heat-dome driven furnace is causing the record temperatures.
   • Temperatures in Britain could break records for June this week.
   confidence 95%