Europe Heatwave Turns Deadly: Over 1,300 Excess Deaths Reported As Temperatures Break Records
Europe Heatwave Turns Deadly: Over 1,300 Excess Deaths Reported As Temperatures Break Records Published By, Last Updated: June 29, 2026, 08:32 IST A relentless heatwave
Europe Heatwave Turns Deadly: Over 1,300 Excess Deaths Reported As Temperatures Break Records Published By, Last Updated: June 29, 2026, 08:32 IST A relentless heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed more than 1,300 lives in just a week, according to the World Health Organization. Screengrab of video shared online A record-breaking heatwave has left more than 1,300 people dead across Europe within a week, with health authorities warning that the toll could continue to rise as extreme temperatures grip large parts of the continent. The World Health Organization (WHO) said the deaths were recorded between June 21 and June 28, as Europe experienced one of its most severe heatwaves in recent history. France has reported around 1,000 excess deaths during the heatwave, making it the worst-hit country so far.
Most of those who died were elderly people, many of whom were living alone or had underlying health conditions. Officials said the full impact may not be known for several more days as mortality data continues to be analysed. The scorching weather has spread beyond western Europe, with Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary also registering record-breaking temperatures. In parts of Germany, temperatures crossed 41°C, prompting authorities in Berlin to deploy water cannon vehicles to cool public spaces and help residents cope with the extreme heat. Videos of the water sprays circulating on social media highlighted the extraordinary measures being taken. 1,300 KILLED across Europe in 7 DAYS as HEATWAVE grips continent — WHO pic.twitter.com/Nky2aCYpxl— RT (@RT_com) June 28, 2026 The heat has also disrupted daily life across the continent.
Transport services have been affected, hospitals have reported a sharp rise in heat-related emergencies, and rivers have reached unusually high temperatures, putting pressure on agriculture and power generation. Scientists have described the current event as Europe’s most intense heatwave on record and linked its severity to human-driven climate change. The World Health Organization has repeatedly warned that heat stress remains the leading cause of climate-related deaths in Europe. Health officials are urging people, particularly older adults, children and those with existing medical conditions, to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay hydrated and seek cooler environments whenever possible. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author Anushka Vats Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom.
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