Extreme temperatures continue to affect large parts of the continent, with Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic among the countries experiencing record-breaking heat on 28 June.
In a message shared on X, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Europe is warming faster than any other continent, making millions of people vulnerable to dangerous heat conditions.
“Europe is the fastest-warming continent in the world. It is heating at twice the global average. Millions of people are exposed to extreme heat, hundreds have died, and schools continue to close,” Tedros said.
The elderly have been the hardest hit, particularly those aged 65 and above. According to WHO, deaths occurring at home have increased by 40%, highlighting the vulnerability of older people during prolonged periods of extreme heat.
Several countries recorded unprecedented temperatures on 28 June. Germany reached 41.7°C, marking the third consecutive day of record-breaking heat. The same temperature was recorded in Coschen, near the Polish border. The Czech Republic registered 41.1°C, while Poland recorded an all-time national high of 40.5°C in the city of Słubice.
Health authorities continue to urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and check on elderly relatives and neighbors as the heatwave persists.
