European heatwave killed more people in region than height of COVID

Live updates

1. 26d ago

   European heatwave death toll surpasses COVID-19 peak

   The European heatwave has resulted in over 18,000 heat-related deaths in Germany and Spain this summer. France has reported 7,300 excess deaths and 14,713 people died during July heatwaves. Germany has reported a record 14,000 heat-related deaths this summer.

   Why it matters

   The heatwave has had a significant impact on Europe, with many countries experiencing record-high temperatures. The death toll has been exacerbated by the region's lack of air conditioning and the elderly being particularly vulnerable. This has raised concerns about the continent's preparedness for climate change. The heatwave has also had significant economic and social impacts.

   What is confirmed

   • The European heatwave has resulted in over 18,000 heat-related deaths in Germany and Spain this summer.
   • France has reported 7,300 excess deaths and 14,713 people died during July heatwaves.
   • Germany has reported a record 14,000 heat-related deaths this summer.
   • The heatwave has had a significant impact on Europe, with many countries experiencing record-high temperatures.

   What to watch next

   • Further updates on the total death toll across Europe.
   • The response of European governments to the heatwave.
   • The economic and social impacts of the heatwave.
   Sources used for this update (14)

   1. The New York Times — Heat Deaths in a ‘Cold’ Country Are a Warning to the Rest of Europe
   2. dw.com — In Germany, record heat meets climate action fatigue
   3. New York Post — European heatwave killed more people in region than height of COVID — and locals still refuse AC
   4. Bloomberg.com — France’s Destructive Heat Waves See Over 7,000 Excess Deaths
   5. France 24 — More than 7,300 excess deaths in France's historically hot summer so far
   6. France 24 — France measures more than 7,300 excess deaths – and counting – during historic heatwaves
   7. Fana News - — Second Heatwave in France Kills 14,713 People During July
   8. Reuters — France recorded 1,243 excess deaths during July heatwaves
   9. Yahoo — Heat linked to around 14,000 deaths in Germany so far this year
   10. Reinsurance News — EU life re/insurers well positioned to manage excess mortality driven by heatwaves: S&P
   11. Courthouse News — 7,300 excess deaths and counting in France's historically hot summer
   12. Hindustan Times — The Climate Issue newsletter: The surprising effects of Europe’s heatwaves
   confidence 90%