Final answer:
The environmental condition that led to the devastating heat wave experienced in Europe, particularly the deaths in France, is air pollution. Atmospheric pollutants can trap heat, leading to amplified temperatures and worsened health issues during heat waves.
Step-by-step explanation:
The environmental condition that contributed to the heat wave experienced in Europe and the thousands of deaths in France is air pollution. Heat waves are often exacerbated by high levels of atmospheric pollutants, including those from vehicle emissions and industrial processes.
Polluted air can trap heat close to the ground, leading to higher temperatures. In addition to the direct impact of heat, air pollution can aggravate respiratory diseases, which can lead to increased mortality during extreme heat events.
Other contributing factors to the severity of heat waves can include urban planning issues, such as the urban heat island effect, where built-up areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to concrete and asphalt absorbing heat.
Additionally, the lack of green spaces and proper ventilation in many urban areas can make it difficult for people, especially the elderly, to cope with extreme temperatures.
It is important to note that while climate change is not listed as an option in the question, it is a significant underlying factor that increases the frequency and intensity of heat waves across the globe.