European Heatwaves Cause Over 10,000 Excess Deaths in June

Countries across Europe recorded more than 10,000 excess deaths during the severe heatwaves that struck the continent in late June. Over 9,000 of those fatalities were among individuals aged 65 and older, according to data from the European mortality monitor, EuroMOMO.

The extreme heat, which broke temperature records in several nations, has been directly linked to climate change. The World Weather Attribution group stated the June heatwaves would have been "virtually impossible" without it.

Separate analysis focusing on England and Wales estimated at least 2,700 heat-related deaths during May and June. Researchers from Imperial College London and other institutions found maximum daytime temperatures were 3°C to 4°C higher than they would have been without global warming.

The UK Health Security Agency plans to release its official heat-related mortality figures soon. A government advisory body, the Climate Change Committee, warned last year that the UK is unprepared for such climate impacts, noting that 92% of British homes could be too hot by 2050.