WHO Links 1,300 Deaths to Europe Heatwave as Germany, Poland and Czech Republic Break 40C Records
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 28
WHO Links 1,300 Deaths to Europe Heatwave as Germany, Poland and Czech Republic Break 40C Records
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 28
Summary
More than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded in Europe since June 21, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, tying the toll to an early-summer heatwave still pushing east.
41.7C in Coschen gave Germany its hottest day on record for a third straight day, while Poland hit 40.5C in Slubice and the Czech Republic reached 41.1C in Doksany.
Around 1,000 extra deaths were reported in France since Wednesday, with many among people aged 65 and older and deaths at home up 40%, underscoring the strain on populations and services.
Tedros said climate change is making once-in-a-generation heatwaves nearly annual in Europe, which he called the fastest-warming continent, and urged governments to adopt heat-health action plans.
Beyond climate change, what societal failures are turning Europe's summer heat into a mass casualty event?
With deadly heat now a yearly event, why are Europe's cities and infrastructure still so dangerously unprepared?
2026 Europe Heatwave: Record-Breaking Temperatures, Public Health Threats, and the Race to Adapt
Overview
Since June 21, 2026, Europe has been facing a major heatwave that started in the Iberian Peninsula and is now spreading across Western, Central, and Southern regions. Temperatures are soaring, with many areas experiencing highs above 35°C and nights staying warmer than 20°C, causing repeated 'tropical nights.' The heatwave is expected to move towards the Balkans soon. This extreme heat has already broken temperature records in several countries and triggered wildfires in Germany. The situation is causing significant consequences for people and the environment, highlighting the urgent need for action and adaptation.