France has recorded approximately 1,000 more deaths than expected since Wednesday as an intense heatwave continues to grip the country, placing growing pressure on hospitals, emergency responders and public services.

According to Public Health France, the excess deaths coincide with a prolonged period of extreme temperatures that has pushed parts of the country above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

“Since June 24, approximately 1,000 additional deaths have been observed compared to the number recorded in previous months,” the agency said in a statement, noting that the figures remain preliminary.

Health officials said the regions hardest hit include Île-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Brittany, Centre-Val de Loire, Normandy and Pays de la Loire, all of which were placed under the highest-level red heat alert during the week.

Authorities said around 85 percent of the reported deaths involved people aged 65 and older, highlighting the heightened risks extreme heat poses to vulnerable populations.

The prolonged heatwave has led to a sharp increase in emergency callouts, stretching healthcare services as temperatures remained exceptionally high across much of the country.

France also recorded its hottest day on record for average nationwide temperatures on Wednesday, with the 24-hour national average reaching 30 degrees Celsius.

In Paris, officials introduced temporary restrictions, including a ban on public alcohol consumption over the weekend, in an effort to reduce pressure on emergency services.

The city’s annual Pride March was postponed because of the extreme weather, while major tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum shortened their operating hours.

As residents sought relief from the heat, large crowds gathered in parks, canals and other public spaces throughout the capital.

However, authorities warned against swimming in unsupervised waterways after a man drowned in the Canal Saint-Martin on Friday night.

Paris Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire urged the public to observe safety guidelines.

“We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: swimming outside supervised areas and designated hours is dangerous,” Grégoire wrote on social media.

The heatwave also claimed the life of 21-year-old footballer Kenzo Kies, who reportedly drowned in the Rhône River.

His club, En Avant Guingamp, expressed its condolences in a statement, saying it was deeply saddened by his death and offering support to his family and loved ones.

Meteorologists have warned that temperatures are expected to remain well above seasonal averages, while health officials continue urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and regularly check on elderly and medically vulnerable individuals.