A relentless heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed hundreds of lives, with Spain recording more than 200 deaths in just two days as temperatures soared above 45 degrees Celsius in parts of the country.
Data from Spain’s mortality surveillance system, operated by the Carlos III Health Institute, showed 212 excess deaths above expected levels during the peak of the extreme heat, underscoring the devastating human toll of the soaring temperatures.
The surveillance system, which analyses mortality records alongside weather conditions, found that Wednesday was the deadliest day, with 95 deaths recorded. Another 66 people died on Tuesday, while 38 fatalities were reported on Monday and 13 on Sunday.
Spain’s State Meteorological Agency warned that temperatures in several regions exceeded 45 degrees Celsius on Tuesday and Wednesday, making them the hottest days the country has experienced this year. Central and northern Spain were among the areas worst affected.
Although temperatures began to ease in some regions on Thursday, authorities continued to urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.
The latest deaths add to Spain’s growing toll from extreme weather. According to the country’s health ministry, more than 3,000 people died from heat-related causes between May and September last year.
Health experts say heatwaves become particularly deadly for elderly people, those with underlying medical conditions, and other vulnerable groups, especially during prolonged periods of extreme temperatures.
The scorching conditions have also gripped other parts of Europe. Temperatures in the United Kingdom climbed above 36 degrees Celsius, while Germany recorded highs close to 40 degrees Celsius.
German authorities confirmed at least six heat-related deaths, while France reported at least 18 fatalities as the deadly heatwave continued to spread across the continent, raising fresh concerns over the growing impact of extreme weather.
