More than 100 people drowned in France while swimming in June

Paris.- A total of 109 people died by drowning in France from June 1 to July 2 due to the high influx of people to bathing areas due to the high temperatures, it was reported this Tuesday. In that period, 429 drowning episodes occurred across the country, 95% more than in the same period a year ago, while fatalities have increased by 58%, the French Public Health Agency (SPF) stated in a report. The agency attributes this sharp increase to the rise in visits to bathing areas due to the high temperatures and asked for increased vigilance regarding avoiding bathing in unauthorized areas and not consuming alcohol before diving into the water.

"The figures underscore the urgent need to continue prevention for the risk of drowning in all age groups," the document indicated.

The increase in the total number of drownings in 2025 affects all age groups, but particularly children aged 0 to 5 years and 6 to 12 years.

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Regarding fatal drownings, 19 children and adolescents died between June 1 and July 2, 2025, compared to 8 in the same period of 2024, and more occurred in rivers than on beaches. Drowning is the main cause of death in everyday accidents among people under 25 years of age in France, Public Health France emphasized.