KABUL (Pajhwok): Health officials in France, Belgium and the Netherlands have reported a total of 3,700 excess deaths during a severe heatwave in June, warning that the figures are preliminary and may increase further.
According to Reuters, experts said the heatwave, which lasted from 20 to 28 June, was among the most intense ever recorded in Europe, disrupting power generation, damaging infrastructure and placing significant strain on healthcare systems.
Scientists believe climate change was “almost certainly” the primary driver behind the severity of the extreme weather event.
In France alone, 2,025 excess deaths were recorded during the heatwave. French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist told local television on Friday that mortality had risen sharply, particularly among people aged over 45.
The country’s public health authority reported that deaths at home increased by 91 percent between 22 and 28 June compared to the previous week. It also noted rises in fatalities in nursing homes and healthcare facilities, warning that the final toll is likely to be higher than initial estimates.
In Belgium, the Health Ministry said it recorded around 1,200 excess deaths between 18 and 29 June.
It added that 530 of the victims were aged 85 or older, while 180 were under 65. Officials described the figures as unprecedented, saying the country had never before experienced such high heat-related mortality during a heatwave.
Meanwhile, authorities in the Netherlands reported around 480 excess deaths, with most victims aged over 80.
Experts have warned that as heatwaves become more frequent and severe due to climate change, European countries will need to strengthen protective measures for vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.
kk/sa
