France’s ongoing heatwave has led to the deaths of at least four young children this week, with doctors confirming another fatal case of a toddler left in an overheated car. Hospitals are struggling to cope, and authorities have warned that the situation may worsen as temperatures continue to rise across Europe.
A one-and-a-half-year-old child was found unconscious in a sweltering car on Tuesday. According to Euronews, one of the parents most likely forgot to take the child to preschool while rushing to work. On Friday, hospital representatives announced that the young patient could not be saved.
This is the fourth such death in France this week, as a record-breaking heatwave sweeps across the continent. Earlier in the week, a three-year-old boy from Paris died after being trapped inside a car due to a child safety lock. Another incident involved two children, aged two and four, who also perished from overheating in a vehicle left in a parking lot.
A series of preventable tragedies
The head of the Paris police admitted that the healthcare system is under immense strain. – We are reaching a saturation point in hospitals – said the head of Paris police. The statement came as media reported growing difficulties in accessing medical facilities across the country.
French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari also revealed that at least 55 people have drowned while trying to escape the heat. – Yesterday evening we had 55 victims, but we fear the situation could worsen – said Marina Ferrari, French sports minister.
Poland braces for extreme temperatures
Poland is also facing a severe heatwave. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has maintained second and third-degree warnings (the highest) for the entire country. On Saturday, temperatures are expected to range from 31°C in the east to 37°C in western provinces, and could reach 41°C on Sunday.
An RCB alert was sent to recipients nationwide: „Warning! Tomorrow and the day after (27/28.06) extreme heat is forecast. Avoid sun exposure and physical exertion. Stay hydrated. Wear a hat and light clothing.”
The Ministry of Interior and Administration confirmed that emergency services remain on standby. „We urge everyone to follow official announcements, act responsibly in public spaces, and take care of the most vulnerable,” the ministry stated in a communiqué.
Źródło: polsatnews.pl, Fot. Polsat News
