Emergency calls surge due to heatwave – Medical staff expect peak in the coming days

Paris – June 23, 2026: The ongoing heatwave in France is significantly increasing the burden on emergency response centers. In many regions, medical command centers have recorded a 20-30% increase in calls related to heatwave symptoms. Doctors and nurses are concerned that medical emergencies will increase even more as temperatures are expected to continue rising. Those primarily affected are the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, and those who work or live outdoors.

The heatwave that has struck across France for several days is causing heat-related illnesses such as circulatory problems, dehydration, and heatstroke more frequently. The head of emergency medical services has already strengthened preventive measures and urges the public to strictly adhere to prevention guidelines like sufficient hydration and avoiding direct sunlight. In addition, extra resources are being deployed to handle the increasing number of calls and dispatches.

Although the intensity of the increase varies by region, especially emergency call command centers in southern and central France report high demand. Hospitals and emergency rooms are also preparing for a surge in heat-related patients. The Ministry of Health is working closely with local authorities to reinforce dispatch capabilities and ensure medical services.

Medical experts emphasize that the coming days are very critical as further temperature rises are forecasted. The combination of extreme heat and occasionally high humidity raises the risk of serious health deterioration, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly or those with existing cardiovascular diseases.

The French authorities rely on prevention information campaigns that raise risk awareness and recommend specific behavioral guidelines to reduce harm among the population. At the same time, no short-term weather relief is expected, highlighting the urgency of preventive measures.

Therefore, the French health care system faces a challenging phase that requires immediate response to increasing medical demands. Emergency centers and hospitals are again requesting that people respond quickly in emergencies while refraining from unnecessary calls to maintain response capacity.

Finally, special attention is urged for elderly neighbors, family members, or elderly living alone, and to seek medical help immediately if signs of heatwave damage appear. The next few days will be decisive in managing the health impacts of the heatwave in France.