Heatwave Strains Emergency Health Services Across French Regions

The June 2026 heatwave has caused a significant surge in medical emergencies across French regions, overwhelming emergency services and hospitals. In the Orne department, the intense heat led to a sharp increase in emergency calls, with the local departmental fire and rescue service (SDIS) reporting nearly 430 calls on a single Friday. This represents a doubling of interventions mainly related to medical emergencies. The SAMU emergency regulation saw a 57% rise in interventions and a 70% increase in calls compared to typical early summer days, with numerous serious heat-related illness cases.

In response, the CHICAM and Argentan hospitals activated their emergency plans to bolster their capacities. Access to CHICAM's emergency department now requires prior orientation via SAMU, and people needing urgent care are advised to call 15, where physicians decide the appropriate level of care—be it home care, general practice, or emergency services. The prefecture has introduced new preventive measures valid until Monday, June 29, including bans on outdoor sports and cultural events in non-air-conditioned spaces and a prohibition on alcohol consumption in public places.

Similarly, the Metz-Thionville regional hospital has experienced a 20% increase in emergency room visits over the past three days. Calls to its emergency regulation center have surged by 40%, reflecting a heightened demand for medical services due to direct victims of heatstroke.

Authorities urge the public to stay hydrated, limit physical exertion, and ensure adequate ventilation at home. The prefect expressed gratitude towards healthcare workers, paramedics, doctors, and students who are actively managing the crisis and ensuring patient care during this extreme heat event.