France records 2,025 excess deaths in June heatwave: Health minister

There is no signalling that Europeans are getting relief from the record-breaking heatwave anytime soon, with the number of deaths mounting with each passing day as the continent battles soaring temperatures.

Socialist Party leader Paul Magnette led the criticism Thursday evening after the health ministry confirmed 1,222 excess deaths between June 18 and June 29.

It proved to be more intense than the infamous 2003 heatwave and could also surpass its duration.

The updated tally of deaths from Public Health France spans the week of June 22 to June 28, during which France saw its hottest-ever days and records shattered for peak daytime and nighttime temperatures in many cities and towns across the country.