Heatwave kills 3,700 people across three European nations

At least 3,700 excess deaths have been reported in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands following the powerful heatwave that swept across Europe in late June. Authorities said the figures are preliminary and warned that the final death toll could increase as more data becomes available.

Experts said the heatwave, which lasted from about June 20 to June 28, was the most severe ever recorded in Europe. They said the extreme temperatures disrupted power generation, damaged infrastructure, and placed enormous pressure on healthcare systems across the region. Scientists also said the unusually intense heat was almost certainly linked to climate change, making the event even more concerning for the future.

In France, officials reported 2,025 excess deaths during the heatwave. French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist said the largest increase was recorded among people aged over 45.

France’s public health authority said deaths at home increased by 91% between June 22 and June 28 compared with the previous week. Deaths also rose in nursing homes and healthcare facilities, prompting officials to warn that the final number of fatalities is likely to be higher.

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Belgium also recorded a sharp rise in deaths during the heatwave. The country’s Health Ministry reported around 1,200 excess deaths between June 18 and June 29. According to Belgian authorities, 530 of those who died were aged 85 or older, while 180 deaths were recorded among people under the age of 65. Officials described the level of heat-related mortality as unprecedented in the country.

In the Netherlands, authorities reported about 480 excess deaths linked to the heatwave. Most of those who died were aged over 80, highlighting the greater risk faced by older adults during periods of extreme heat.