Far be it from me to defend the French, but 100 degrees at 80% is pretty hot and sticky, particularly if you aren't used to it. Apparently, in France, they aren't. The same situation occurs in Chicago occasionally, and we see a few deaths. I suspect that the elderly and very young are the most prevalent among the deceased.
Around here, we don't see over 100 very often, but its always humid in Tennessee. I have to admit, though, when I was out west a few years ago facing 100 degree heat, someone decided to point out that it was a dry heat. I replied that my oven also provided a dry heat. :)
LMAO, yes the "dry heat" can very much feel like stepping inside an oven. I drink about a gallon of water a day in the heat, i work outdoors 9 hours a day in 100+F. When i go home 75F on my a/c feels so cold I use a blanket sometimes.