More than 10,000 excess deaths were reported across Europe after a powerful late-June heatwave, according to newly released data from the European mortality monitoring network, a surveillance system backed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to the findings, the majority of those who died were people aged 65 and above, with more than 9,000 fatalities recorded among older adults. This is because extreme heat can increase health risks, especially for elderly people and those living with existing heart and respiratory conditions.
Meanwhile, countries including France, Spain, Belgium, and the United Kingdom experienced record-breaking temperatures as the heatwave swept across western Europe. As a result, health systems faced additional pressure while communities struggled with the effects of prolonged high temperatures.
In addition, scientists from the World Weather Attribution group said climate change contributed significantly to the intensity of the heatwaves. They explained that rising global temperatures are making extreme weather events more frequent and severe.
WHO says prompt action can save lives during extreme heat. If someone near you looks unwell, don’t leave them alone; move them to a cooler area immediately and seek first aid or alert event staff.
Furthermore, researchers estimated that thousands of deaths in England and Wales were linked to high temperatures recorded in May and June. The study also highlighted that temperatures during the heatwave were several degrees higher than they would have been without global warming.
Experts are calling for stronger heat preparedness measures, including improved warning systems and better protection for vulnerable groups. They warn that without urgent action, the health impacts of extreme heat are likely to increase as climate change continues.
