Europe’s Early Summer Heatwave May Have Caused Hundreds Of Excess Deaths, WHO Warns

Europe’s Early Summer Heatwave May Have Caused Hundreds of Excess Deaths, WHO Warns Europe’s unprecedented early summer heatwave may be responsible for hundreds of excess deaths, according to the head of the World Health Organization WHO, as soaring temperatures continue to grip large parts of the continent.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the extreme heat has become a major public health emergency, with preliminary estimates indicating that more than 1,300 excess deaths linked to high temperatures have been recorded since late June. Older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and other vulnerable groups have been the most affected. Several European countries have experienced record-breaking temperatures exceeding 40°C, triggering health alerts, wildfires, transport disruptions, power shortages, and increased pressure on hospitals and emergency services. Scientists say the event is among the most severe heatwaves ever recorded in Europe and warn that climate change is making such extreme weather more frequent and more intense. Health authorities are urging people to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours, and regularly check on elderly relatives and neighbors. Officials also stress the importance of strengthening climate adaptation measures to reduce the growing health risks posed by extreme heat.