The World Health Organisation announced on Sunday that more than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded across Europe since June 21, attributing the tragedy to a record-breaking heatwave currently impacting much of the continent. As the dangerous weather pattern shifts toward the east, millions of people have endured a weekend of extreme temperatures, with numerous nations reporting rising death tolls and warning that their healthcare infrastructure is nearing capacity.
French health officials reported on Sunday morning that the country had seen approximately 1,000 more deaths than typically expected since last Wednesday. Addressing the broader crisis, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated on the social platform X that over 1,300 excess deaths have been linked to the high temperatures across the continent during this timeframe. He noted that heat stress is frequently described as a “silent killer,” adding that homes, schools, and workplaces across Europe were not originally designed to withstand such extreme heat.
According to estimates provided by AFP, at least 191 million individuals were forecast to face temperatures of 35C or higher on Sunday, with the most intense conditions affecting Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Germany. Further analysis, utilizing forecasts from the German Meteorological Service and 2025 population projections, suggests that 381 million people in Europe, excluding Turkey, will see temperatures climb past 30C.
Tedros expressed deep concern, highlighting that millions across the continent are suffering under extreme heat, with schools closing and power grids beginning to struggle. He warned that climate change is causing “once-in-a-generation” heatwaves to occur with near-annual frequency, specifically noting that Europe is currently the fastest-warming continent, heating at twice the global average.
The United Nations health agency is actively coordinating with member states to address the significant health threats posed by these heat events, focusing on prevention, preparedness, and strengthening healthcare systems. The WHO chief concluded by urging European nations to implement comprehensive heat health action plans to prioritize the protection of public health in the ongoing face of climate change.
