Europe Heatwave Claims Over 1,300 Lives as Temperatures Hit Record Highs

Since June 21, a severe heatwave has swept across Europe, exposing roughly 150 million people to extreme temperatures. Public‑health officials report that more than 1,300 deaths have been linked to the prolonged heat, with France alone accounting for about 1,000 excess fatalities.

Record temperatures were recorded in the Czech Republic (41.1 °C in Doksany) and Germany (41.7 °C in Koschen near the Polish border). Other nations, including Italy, Poland and Greece, also experienced temperatures above 35 °C. In Berlin, police deployed water cannons to cool crowds, while power outages left roughly 36 000 households without electricity.

Health authorities warned that the impact on human health could continue for days after temperatures fall, urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure.