Europe Faces Over 1,300 Heat-Related Deaths as Temperatures Soar

A long heatwave across Europe has been linked to over 1,300 extra deaths since 21 June.

Countries like France, Spain, Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic have seen very high temperatures. Health officials warn that this extreme weather is a big risk, especially for older people and those who are vulnerable.

In a post on X, Tedros Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organisation, said the extra deaths are connected to the heat that is affecting Europe.

“Heat stress is often called the ‘silent killer’, and European homes, workplaces and schools were not built for these temperatures,” he wrote.

Ghebreyesus urged governments to improve heat-health action plans to better protect people from the health impacts of climate change.

Meteorologists say the heat is due to a “heat dome.” This weather condition happens when a high-pressure system traps hot air in one area. As the warm air sinks, it gets hotter, leading to long periods of extreme heat.

Spain has reported over 200 heat-related deaths, according to a public health institute linked to the country’s health ministry. Most of the victims were aged 65 years and above.

France is one of the countries hit hardest by the heatwave. More than 50 million people are under the country's highest weather alert as authorities struggle with the rising temperatures.

Health officials in Paris have reported many cases of cardiac arrest in just 24 hours. The extreme heat has also caused at least 74 drowning incidents in the past week as people tried to cool off in rivers, lakes, and other water bodies.

Authorities also said two children were found dead in different vehicles after being left inside during the intense heat.

The heat has sparked a discussion about the lack of air conditioning in French homes, schools, and hospitals. While some politicians want to increase access to air conditioning, others say that relying more on cooling systems could use more energy and worsen climate change.

“I think it is bad for the environment, but the environment doesn’t give us the choice,” one French resident said.

Since Wednesday, health authorities in France have reported about 1,000 more deaths than usual. They also noted a 40 percent rise in deaths at home, with older people making up a big part of the fatalities.

The heatwave has broken temperature records in many areas of Central Europe.

Poland recorded its highest temperature ever after Słubice hit 40.5 degrees Celsius, according to the country’s Institute of Meteorology and Water Management.

Preliminary data showed Germany reached 41.7°C on Sunday, making it the hottest day on record and the third day in a row of record temperatures.

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute reported that the Czech Republic set its second temperature record in two days, with Doksany, north of Prague, reaching 41.1°C.

Forecasters expect the heat dome to last for several more days. Authorities are urging people to stay hydrated, avoid too much sun, and check on older family members and neighbours since the risk to life remains high.