As Europe swelters under a heatwave that has killed hundreds, new data reveals a startling disparity in crisis management. France has seen drowning deaths spike 30% this summer, with authorities struggling to cope. Meanwhile, the UK's heatwave resilience plan has been praised by international observers for its proactive measures.
Sources confirm that while France's Mediterranean coast has been a hotspot for tragedies, the UK's early warning systems and beach safety campaigns have saved lives. But questions remain about the European Union's failure to coordinate a unified response. Documents uncovered by this outlet show that Brussels was warned years ago about the risks but did little.
The UK, now outside the EU, has been able to move faster. But let's be clear: this is not a victory lap. The death toll in France is a scandal.
And the UK's success is fragile, dependent on funding that could be cut at any time. Follow the money. The bodies are piling up.
