Europe heatwaves kill at least 35,000 this summer, data shows
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
At least 35,000 people died in Europe this summer from extreme heat, according to data covering only half the continent. Germany, France and Spain account for more than 25,000 of the deaths. The toll is expected to rise once August mortality data is complete.
Key Facts
- Germany recorded about 14,000 heat-related deaths from early April to early August, according to the Robert Koch Institute.
- Spain reported nearly 5,000 heat-related deaths since May, surpassing its 2022 record, according to the Carlos III Health Institute.
- France reported more than 7,000 excess deaths between late May and late July, with temperatures above 40°C recorded at hundreds of weather stations.
- Germany recorded 9,600 deaths in the last week of June alone, making it the deadliest summer since records began.
Continental Toll
Four major consecutive heatwaves struck Europe this summer, causing tens of thousands of excess deaths. Official data covering about half the continent shows at least 35,000 more deaths than normal periods. Germany, France and Spain alone account for more than 25,000 of the excess deaths. Experts say the final toll will be much higher because heat is often not recorded as a direct cause of death and August data is incomplete.
Country Breakdown
Germany was the hardest-hit country, with about 14,000 heat-related deaths from early April to early August, according to the Robert Koch Institute. The last week of June alone saw 9,600 deaths in Germany, making it the deadliest summer since records began. Spain's Carlos III Health Institute reported nearly 5,000 heat-related deaths since May, surpassing the country's 2022 record. France reported more than 7,000 excess deaths between late May and late July, with temperatures above 40°C recorded at hundreds of weather stations.
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Europe heatwaves kill at least 35,000 this summer, data shows
