PARIS — A record European heat wave has been linked to a sharp rise in excess deaths across several countries, with preliminary health data indicating thousands of additional fatalities as authorities continue to assess the full impact of the extreme temperatures.
The World Health Organization’s Europe office said data from five countries showed nearly 10,000 excess deaths associated with the heat so far this summer, while noting that the toll was still being counted. Excess deaths refer to fatalities above the number normally expected during a given period and can include deaths where extreme heat worsened existing medical conditions.
Preliminary national figures cited in reports show Germany recorded thousands of heat-related excess deaths, while the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands have also reported significant increases in mortality during the heat period. The figures remain subject to revision as health authorities complete reviews of death records and heat exposure data.
The heat wave brought prolonged periods of extreme temperatures across parts of Europe, with some regions experiencing record or near-record heat. The WHO has warned that extreme heat is an increasing public health threat, particularly for older people and those with underlying health conditions.
Several countries have issued heat alerts and expanded public health measures as authorities monitor hospitals, emergency services and vulnerable populations.
Officials said assessments of the death toll and broader impacts of the heat wave are continuing, with updated figures expected as more complete mortality data becomes available.
