France records 139 drowning deaths since June 19
More than half of fatalities occurred in unsupervised swimming areas
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With temperatures climbing once again and France experiencing its third heatwave, more and more people are heading to the water to cool off, resulting in a rising number of drowning deaths.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said that 139 people have died by drowning since June 19, an increase of 18% year-on-year. He said that while drownings are an annual phenomenon, the current heatwave has worsened the situation by encouraging more people to seek relief in rivers, lakes and the sea.
The updated toll comes just two days after Sports Minister Marina Ferrari announced that 131 people had died by drowning since June 19.
"Be vigilant because we are losing too many lives," she said.
For context, 409 drowning deaths were recorded in France during summer 2025, although this figure covers a much longer period than the current count.
Ms Ferrari also said that 55% of the deaths occurred in unsupervised and unauthorised swimming areas, urging people to always choose supervised locations. She added that, in several fatal drowning cases in unsupervised areas, a supervised swimming area was less than 5km away.
In terms of demographics, the groups most affected are "those under 18" and "those over 60."
"The nature of youth is to believe you are invincible," Axel Lamotte, head of communications of the Fédération française des maîtres-nageurs sauveteurs, told The Connexion. "Young people do not think about illness, death or disability. They are fit, they run, they jump… and sometimes they jump into the water without understanding the risks."
Meanwhile, people over 60 often overestimate their abilities.
"It is, once again, a question of understanding your own abilities in the water," Mr Lamotte said.
Ms Ferrari also reiterated several safety measures people should keep in mind before heading into the water:
Only swim in supervised areas.
Do not consume alcohol before swimming.
Wet your body gradually before entering the sea to reduce the risk of thermal shock.
Never leave children unattended.
Do not overestimate your swimming abilities.
Finally, if you see someone struggling in the water, emergency services should be alerted immediately by calling 112 or 15.
