Data from 27 European countries showed that an estimated 10,650 excess deaths.
BRUSSELS: More than 10,000 excess deaths were recorded across Europe during the final week of June as an intense heat wave pushed temperatures to record levels, with older adults accounting for the vast majority of fatalities, according to official data.
Data from 27 European countries showed that an estimated 10,650 excess deaths occurred during the week of June 22-28, marking a sharp increase compared with the previous eight weeks, when mortality levels had remained below seasonal averages.
Authorities said nearly 9,000 of those who died were aged 65 or older, highlighting the disproportionate impact of extreme heat on elderly and vulnerable populations.
Meteorologists said climate change is increasing the frequency, intensity and duration of heat waves across Europe, exposing older adults and people with underlying health conditions to greater health risks.
Meanwhile, civil protection authorities in Catalonia, Spain, issued a high alert as the region faced its third major heat wave of the summer.
The extreme weather is expected to persist through Wednesday, accompanied by hot, dust-laden air from the Sahara Desert.
Forecasters warned that temperatures could be highest in the Lleida Pyrenees region, while coastal and southern pre-littoral areas are expected to experience unusually warm nights.
More read, Researchers estimate 2,700 heat-related deaths after record UK heatwaves
Authorities have also placed firefighting services on high alert due to an elevated risk of wildfires and urged residents to remain in cool, shaded locations.
