Deadly European Heatwave Pushes Temperatures to Dangerous Highs
VALèNCIA, SPAIN — The World Health Organization (WHO) regional office for Europe has warned that Europe is facing a deadly public health crisis as an extreme heatwave continues to sweep across the continent, claiming lives and disrupting daily life. Countries including France, Spain, Germany, and the United Kingdom are among the hardest hit, with record-breaking temperatures triggering wildfires, health emergencies, and widespread disruption. Authorities say the relentless heat has already claimed lives, while hospitals continue to receive patients suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
In France alone, at least 20 people have drowned after seeking relief from the scorching temperatures by swimming in rivers, lakes, and other open waters. Emergency services say the dangerous conditions have turned what would normally be a way to cool off into a deadly risk.
The impact extends beyond hospitals. Several schools have been forced to close or shorten learning hours as classrooms become too hot for students and teachers, while governments continue issuing red alerts urging people to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
Pedestrians walk past a pharmacy sign showing 39 degrees Celsius (102 Fahrenheit) as high temperatures hit Lisbon, Portugal on June 28, in 2025. Horacio Villalobos/Corbis News/Getty Images
Older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and people with underlying health conditions remain the most vulnerable as temperatures continue to climb. Scientists say the increasing frequency and intensity of such heatwaves are another stark reminder of the growing impacts of climate change.
Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge (WHO Regional Director for Europe) declared that “extreme heat is a health emergency and a lethal manifestation of climate change rather than just a weather story calling for a coordinated, institutional response to prevent heat-related deaths.” He further emphasized that with proper action, achieving zero heat-related deaths is a bold yet achievable goal.
Health officials say the coming days will be critical as temperatures remain dangerously high across much of Europe, with authorities urging the public to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, and look out for vulnerable members of their communities to prevent more heat-related deaths.