Record-Breaking Temperatures Trigger Major Public Health Crisis
More than 10,000 excess deaths were recorded across Europe during a record-breaking heatwave in late June, according to new mortality data, highlighting the devastating human impact of extreme weather intensified by climate change. The figures, compiled by the European mortality monitoring network EuroMOMO, showed 10,650 excess deaths across 27 countries during the week of June 22–28, marking one of the deadliest heat events in recent years.
Health experts reported that over 9,000 of the excess deaths occurred among people aged 65 and above, who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, cardiovascular disease and respiratory complications. Researchers noted that mortality levels had remained below average during the preceding eight weeks, with no significant disease outbreaks or other major health emergencies to explain the sudden rise in deaths.
France and Belgium Among Hardest-Hit Nations
France and Belgium recorded the highest excess mortality during the heatwave, with Belgium experiencing its worst heat-related death toll since national records began in 2000. Separate studies in England and Wales estimated nearly 2,700 heat-related deaths during May and June, with scientists attributing approximately 42% of those fatalities to the influence of human-induced climate change.
Meteorologists said the heatwave shattered temperature records across several European countries, straining healthcare systems, disrupting transport infrastructure and increasing pressure on emergency services. Elderly residents, children and people with pre-existing medical conditions were identified as the most vulnerable groups.
Scientists Link Death Toll to Climate Change
Climate scientists said the intensity of the late June heatwave would have been “virtually impossible” without global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions. They warned that rising global temperatures are making prolonged and intense heatwaves more frequent across Europe, increasing risks to public health and critical infrastructure.
Researchers have urged European governments to strengthen heat action plans by expanding early warning systems, improving urban cooling measures and protecting vulnerable populations during periods of extreme heat. They cautioned that without stronger climate adaptation strategies and faster reductions in carbon emissions, similar heat-related disasters are likely to become increasingly common, posing a growing threat to lives, economies and public health across the continent.
