Study Links Recent European Heatwave to 2,300 Deaths in Just 10 Days

A new study has found that the recent heatwave across Europe likely caused an estimated 2,300 excess deaths over a 10-day span, highlighting the growing human toll of extreme temperatures linked to climate change.

Researchers analyzed mortality data across multiple European countries during the heatwave, which struck between late June and early July, when temperatures soared well above seasonal averages. Their findings indicate that the heatwave resulted in a significant spike in deaths compared to expected rates, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

The analysis revealed that southern and central European regions experienced the highest increases in mortality. In Italy, Greece, Spain, and France, daily death rates were consistently elevated during peak temperature days. Health experts emphasized that while high temperatures alone do not directly kill, they significantly exacerbate cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses.

The study’s authors warned that without expanded public health measures—like heat alerts, cooling centers, and community support—the likelihood of heat-related deaths will continue to rise as climate change drives more frequent and intense heatwaves.

European governments responded by issuing warnings, opening public cooling facilities, and advising citizens to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during peak heat. Still, medical professionals cautioned that short-term responses need to be paired with long-term strategies, including infrastructure adaptation and improved early-warning systems.

The findings underscore the urgent need for coordinated efforts across Europe to protect at-risk groups and prevent further loss of life as extreme heat becomes a recurring seasonal threat.

With input from Al Jazeera