June Heatwave in Europe Linked to Over 12,000 Excess Deaths

A severe heatwave across Europe in late June 2026 resulted in at least 12,000 excess deaths, according to initial estimates based on national data.

Key points

• The European Mortality Monitoring (EuroMOMO) platform reported over 14,000 excess deaths in the final week of June across 24 countries.
• France and Belgium experienced some of the highest mortality rates, with Belgium recording its most significant heat-related surge since 2000.
• The majority of victims were individuals aged 65 and older, with heat exacerbating pre-existing cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal conditions.
• Climatologists suggest the intensity and duration of this heat event were significantly influenced by human-induced climate change.

Why it matters

The high mortality rate highlights the growing public health risks posed by climate change and the urgent need for European governments to strengthen adaptation and protection plans for vulnerable populations.