The number of excess deaths linked to the heatwave sweeping across mainland Europe has reached 1,300, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the figure, which has been calculated since last Sunday when abnormally high temperatures began to be recorded in countries including France, Germany, and Italy.
WHO warns of recurring extreme heat events
In a post on X, Dr Tedros stated: 'Right now 150 million people are living under extreme heat, hundreds have died, schools are shut, grids are buckling. Driven by climate change and global warming, the phenomenon of the “once-in-a-generation” heatwave is now occurring nearly annual.' He emphasised that European homes, workplaces, and schools were not designed for such temperatures.
Storms and power outages in France
In France, approximately 36,000 homes are without power following heatwave-related storms. The Eiffel Tower was struck by lightning, and golf ball-sized hail stripped tiles from roofs. Further storms are expected to hit the country tonight.
Italy and other countries hit record highs
Italy is experiencing the peak of its heatwave today, with temperatures approaching 40°C. News agency Ansa reported that an 82-year-old tourist died on a beach in Marina di Grosseto, on the Tuscany coast. Germany, Denmark, and Czechia have preliminarily broken their all-time temperature records, while France and Switzerland have recorded their hottest June temperatures.
UK sees temporary relief after record-breaking heat
The extreme heat is subsiding in the UK, with temperatures in areas like London expected to fall below 20°C tonight for the first time in several days. This respite follows three consecutive days of record-breaking June temperatures, reaching 37.3°C in Santon Downham on Friday.
WHO calls for stronger health system responses
Dr Tedros urged preparedness and prevention, stating: 'WHO is working with its Member States and partners to address the health threats posed by extreme heat through focusing on preparedness, prevention and stronger health system responses.'
