European Heatwave Linked to 2,300 Deaths in 10 Days

A severe heatwave across 12 European cities caused an estimated 2,300 heat-related deaths over a 10-day span from June 23 to July 2. A new study reveals that about two-thirds of these fatalities—around 1,500—were directly connected to climate change, which intensified the heatwave by raising temperatures by up to 4°C (7.2°F).

The research, conducted by experts from institutions in the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, and Switzerland, covered cities including Barcelona, Madrid, London, and Milan, collectively home to more than 30 million people. During this period, Western Europe faced extreme heat, with temperatures soaring beyond 40°C (104°F) in Spain and wildfires erupting in France.

Using epidemiological models and historical mortality data, researchers estimated deaths caused or worsened by the intense heat, including those where existing health conditions were aggravated. Comparing the actual heatwave with a hypothetical scenario without human-driven climate warming, the study concluded that the event would have been significantly cooler—by 2 to 4°C—in almost all cities studied.

The researchers highlighted that elevated temperatures push vulnerable groups—such as the elderly, young children, the sick, and outdoor workers—into dangerous conditions. Urban areas worsen this effect due to heat absorbed and retained by buildings and pavement.

Heatwaves are often called “silent killers,” as many deaths occur indoors and go unreported. Scientists emphasized that even a small rise in temperature during such events can mean the difference between life and death for thousands.

The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service confirmed that last month was the third-hottest June globally, with Western Europe experiencing its warmest June on record and widespread “very strong heat stress.” Experts warn that as the planet warms, such deadly heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and severe, posing increasing risks to public health.