The heatwaves that have hit France in recent months could result in \u20ac10 billion to \u20ac15 billion ($17 billion) in direct and indirect costs, French environment minister Monique Barbut said on Wednesday.<\/p>\n
Barbut cited estimates from France\u2019s national statistics agency, INSEE, and said that the heatwave period was not over yet.<\/p>\n
The 2022 drought resulted in \u20ac5.6 billion in direct and indirect costs, but this year\u2019s heatwaves have been longer and more intense, with more extensive forest fires and a greater decline in agricultural production, she said.<\/p>\n
Barbut also said that the continuing drought in the country has left more than 40,000 people facing water cuts.<\/p>\n
Economists and academics estimate Europe\u2019s record heat and drought this summer could cost hundreds of billions of euros, as global-warming-driven extremes disrupt power, shipping and public health, while wildfires threaten to make this Europe\u2019s worst season on record.<\/p>\n
($1 = 0.8654 euros)<\/p>\n
(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout; editing by Alex Richardson)<\/p>\n
Photograph: Firefighters work to suppress a fire near Ares, during wildfires in the area of southwestern France, on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. (AP Photo\/Baz Ratner, Pool)<\/p>\n
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