France Links Rise in Drownings to Prolonged Heatwaves
BBC News reports that France has experienced a sharp rise in drownings since 19 June, with 301 deaths attributed to the phenomenon. Sports and Youth Minister Marina Ferrari blames the increase on prolonged heatwaves and risky behavior by swimmers.
Ferrari noted that many of the fatalities occurred in areas not designated for swimming, such as "open water, in canals for example." She emphasized the importance of safe swimming zones and cautioned against sudden immersion in cold water during hot days.
In June, Ferrari had already warned about the dangers of trying to cool off in rivers and canals without considering the risks. Climate change is causing temperatures to rise faster in Europe, according to the Copernicus climate service.
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