France: Health Minister Stéphanie Rist Reports Increase in Emergency Calls During Heatwave

Paris – 22.06.2026: Health Minister Stéphanie Rist informed on Monday in the program “Ma France” on the channel ICI about the health impacts of the current heatwave in France. She reported an increase in calls to the emergency number 15 by 20 to 30 percent compared to the usual level. The majority of these calls related to heat complaints that do not necessarily require hospital admission.

Rist emphasized the importance of preventive measures to protect the population from the health consequences of extreme heat. The national heat protection plan has been active since June 1, 2026, and runs until September 15. A central component of this plan is an updated vigilance map section, which displays hazard levels several times daily, thereby informing citizens about the current situation.

During the heatwave, several regions in France issued the highest alert levels. Temperatures up to 41 degrees Celsius were forecasted in some areas. These extreme values prompted authorities to activate emergency plans as well as extensively warn and sensitize the population.

The minister called for special protection of elderly people and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. She recommended staying well hydrated, avoiding physical exertion during the hottest part of the day, and seeking air-conditioned spaces whenever possible to escape the heat.

Despite the protective measures already implemented, the situation remains tense. Cooperation between health authorities, medical facilities, and emergency services has been intensified to respond quickly and efficiently to the increased volume of emergency calls.

The current hot summer evokes memories of the catastrophic summer months of 2003, when over 14,000 people in France died as a result of extreme heat. At that time, mainly elderly and health-compromised individuals were affected. This historical experience influences the work of authorities and the design of protection programs today.

In light of climate change and the associated increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, experts stress the urgency of long-term adaptation strategies. These include improving urban infrastructure, creating and maintaining green spaces, as well as broad public awareness campaigns about the dangers of extreme temperatures.

France relies on preventive measures and swift response to tackle this challenge and protect the health of the population as effectively as possible. Experiences from recent years and the ongoing heatwave underline the necessity of sustainable concepts to adapt to changing climatic conditions.