Western Europe heatwave causes over 34,000 deaths

Over 34,600 people died across five Western European countries due to extreme heat during this year's summer. The region experienced its warmest June, July, and August on record.

Spain recorded its deadliest summer since 2015, with 5,800 excess deaths attributed to heat between May 15 and September 30, according to the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII). France saw an estimated 7,800 deaths following three heatwaves, its highest figure since 2015.

Other countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, and Belgium, also reported increased heat-related mortality. According to the Copernicus climate monitoring service, average temperatures in the region were 2.5°C above the 1991–2020 average. Approximately 52% of the European continent faced intense thermal stress, with perceived temperatures exceeding 38°C.