HEATWAVE 2003, PARIS IN THE FURNACE | France 3 | Documentaires

It was 20 years ago. And yet, we all remember where we were that summer, and how we got through that episode and fought those extreme temperatures. The 2003 heat wave is part of our collective memory. From this period we remember some strong images. That of an angry emergency doctor, crowded hospital corridors, and a minister of health in a polo shirt who seems totally disconnected from reality.

Between August 1 and 20, 2003, the heat wave claimed 15,000 lives. One in three victims lived in Ile-de-France, the region most affected by this deadly heat wave. This drama has revealed many flaws in our society…

Are we today well prepared to face such events? In any case, as after every tragedy, lessons have been learned and measures have been taken. Heat wave plan, specific weather alerts, lists of elderly and isolated people with town halls, reinforced solidarity, air-conditioned rooms in all EPHADs… The country has become aware that this climatic hazard is becoming a public health issue.

Based on archives from the time and interviews with the main protagonists, this documentary seeks to dissect this extraordinary event and trace the changes it has caused in our society.