The Paris heatwave

<p>In August 2003 Europe was hit by the hottest heatwave for hundreds of years. Tens of thousands of people died. </p><p>Not built to withstand two weeks of extreme heat, Paris turned into a death trap for its most vulnerable citizens. </p><p>The temperature reached 40C. Many elderly people died in their apartments alone. </p><p>The government was criticised for its handling of the crisis. The head of the national health authority resigned shortly after the end of the heatwave. </p><p>Emergency doctor, Patrick Pelloux, who was working at St Antoine Hospital in Paris, tells George Crafer what he encountered.</p><p>(Photo: Paris looking hot. Credit: Getty Images)</p>