France's Health Authority urges stringent bans amidst the record 193 drowning fatalities in July
The summer of 2025 has seen a significant increase in drowning deaths across France, with nearly 200 lives lost in less than two months. This surge is primarily attributed to extreme heat and heatwaves that have driven people to seek relief in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and oceans [1][2].
The heatwave has intensified recreational water use, exposing people to hazards such as sudden currents, submerged debris, and poorly marked dangers, especially in natural water bodies like rivers and lakes, where over 90% of drownings typically occur [1][3].
According to the data, between June 1 and July 23, a total of 429 drowning deaths have been recorded, marking a 58% increase compared to the same period in 2024 [1]. Drownings at sea account for 79 of the total recorded deaths, while drownings in watercourses account for 58 and in lakes account for 30 [1]. Drownings in private pools account for 24 of the total recorded deaths.
The increase in drowning deaths has affected various age groups, with older populations being disproportionately vulnerable to heat-related impacts and drowning risks [1]. However, detailed age-group statistics specific to drowning victims in France in 2025 are not fully detailed in the available data.
Notably, among young people aged 13 to 17, 30% died in 2025, compared to 13% in the same period last year [1]. This underscores the importance of safety measures, as everyone is at risk of drowning, regardless of physical condition or age [5].
In response to these trends, safety measures emphasized include enhancing climate resilience infrastructure and deploying advanced water safety technologies, such as better hazard marking, increased lifeguard presence at popular water sites, public awareness campaigns about swimming safety, and adapting water use management to account for heatwave conditions [1]. Public health agencies in France, such as Santé publique France, are involved in monitoring and responding to these trends, highlighting the importance of coordinated safety actions during extreme heat periods [4].
As the summer progresses, with high temperatures and rain showers alternating in July, it is crucial for everyone to respect swimming bans on unsupervised sites and follow safety guidelines to reduce the risk of drowning [6]. By doing so, we can ensure a safer summer for all.
[1] [Source] [2] [Source] [3] [Source] [4] [Source] [5] [Source] [6] [Source]
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