Europe's 'Silent Killer': WHO Confirms 1,300+ Excess Deaths in Heatwave
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported over 1,300 excess deaths across Europe linked to a record-breaking heatwave that has gripped the continent since June 21. The deaths, recorded in multiple countries, highlight the growing health threat posed by extreme heat, which WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described as a 'silent killer'.
France has been particularly affected, with health officials reporting approximately 1,000 excess deaths since June 24. The heatwave, which has pushed temperatures above 40°C in some areas, is now moving eastwards, affecting countries such as Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland.
According to estimates from Agence France-Presse (AFP), at least 191 million people across Europe were forecast to endure temperatures of 35°C or higher on June 28. Analysis by the Austrian NGO Klimadashboard, based on data from the German Meteorological Service and 2025 population projections, indicates that 381 million people in Europe (excluding Türkiye) would experience temperatures exceeding 30°C.
Dr. Tedros warned that millions of people are living under extreme heat, with hundreds dead, schools closed, and power grids strained. He emphasised that climate change is driving these events, noting that 'once-in-a-generation' heatwaves are now occurring almost annually. Europe, he said, is the fastest-warming continent on Earth, heating at twice the global average.
The WHO is working with member states and partners to address health threats from extreme heat through preparedness, prevention, and stronger health system responses. Dr. Tedros called on European countries to implement heat health action plans to safeguard public health amid rising temperatures.
The heatwave underscores the urgent need for adaptation measures, as many homes, workplaces, and schools in Europe were not designed to withstand such extreme conditions. Authorities across the continent are issuing warnings and setting up cooling centres to protect vulnerable populations.
