More than 10,000 people died across Europe during a severe heatwave that swept the continent in the second half of June, according to data released by the European mortality monitoring network.
The data showed that excess deaths exceeded 10,000 during the 26th week of 2026, with the overwhelming majority of fatalities occurring among people aged 65 and above. More than 9,000 deaths were recorded in this age group alone.
Belgium and France experienced the highest excess mortality during the period, while Spain, the Netherlands and Switzerland reported moderate increases. Excess deaths were comparatively lower in the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy.
The heatwave pushed temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in several Western European countries, placing significant pressure on public health systems and increasing risks for vulnerable populations.
On July 9, the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service confirmed that June 2026 was the hottest June ever recorded globally, with an average near-surface air temperature of 20.74°C.
Scientists have repeatedly warned that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events, making heatwaves one of Europe’s deadliest weather-related hazards.
Source: Reuters
