Deadly Heatwave Sweeps Europe: Over 1,300 Deaths as WHO Issues Urgent Warning

World Health Organization Raises Alarm Over Escalating Health Crisis

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the severe heatwave affecting several European countries since June 21 has claimed the lives of more than 1,300 people, warning of growing health risks associated with soaring temperatures.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that more than one million people have been exposed to extreme weather conditions. The heatwave has forced the closure of schools and placed significant pressure on electricity grids and healthcare systems across several European nations.

France Reports the Highest Death Toll

According to the WHO, France alone has recorded around 1,000 excess deaths since last week. Health authorities have also warned that many hospitals are nearing full capacity as the number of heat-related illnesses continues to rise.

Climate Change Intensifies the Threat

The WHO stressed that heatwaves are becoming an increasingly serious threat across Europe, noting that much of the continent’s infrastructure was not designed to withstand such extreme temperatures. The organization warned that climate change is placing unprecedented strain on healthcare systems and emergency services.