WHO Links Over 1,300 Excess Deaths to Europe Heatwave, Warns of Climate Crisis Impact

June 29, 2026

Geneva: More than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded across Europe since June 21 due to the ongoing heatwave, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the extreme heat is intensifying due to climate change and global warming, making such deadly heatwaves increasingly frequent and severe.

Europe is the fastest-warming continent on Earth, heating at twice the global average. Right now 150 million people are living under extreme heat, hundreds have died, schools are shut, grids are buckling.

Driven by climate change and global warming, the phenomenon of the…

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) June 28, 2026

In a post on social media platform X, Tedros said around 150 million people are currently living under extreme heat conditions across Europe. He added that hundreds of deaths have been reported, while schools have been shut and power grids are under severe stress due to rising temperatures.

Climate Change Driving Deadly Heatwaves

The WHO warned that Europe is the fastest-warming continent, heating at nearly twice the global average. Scientists and health experts say climate change is increasing both the intensity and duration of heatwaves by trapping more heat in the atmosphere due to rising greenhouse gas emissions.

According to WHO, extreme heat leads to deaths mainly through heat stress, dehydration, and worsening of existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and kidney diseases. The body’s ability to regulate temperature fails in prolonged heat exposure, especially among the elderly, outdoor workers, and vulnerable populations, leading to fatal complications.

Tedros noted that events once described as “once-in-a-generation” heatwaves are now occurring almost every year, highlighting the accelerating impact of climate change on public health.

Rising Health Emergency Across Europe

The WHO said European homes, schools, and workplaces were not designed for such extreme temperatures, increasing the risk of heat-related illness and fatalities. The organisation urged governments to urgently strengthen heat health action plans and improve early warning systems.

WHO Issues Heat Safety Guidelines

To reduce risks, the WHO advised people to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, stay in shaded or cool areas, and drink water regularly. It also recommended wearing loose, light clothing and taking cool showers to regulate body temperature.

For households, the WHO suggested using night-time ventilation to cool homes and limiting the use of electrical appliances during peak heat. Fans should only be used when temperatures remain below 40°C, as they can increase heat stress beyond that level.

If air conditioning is available, WHO recommends setting thermostats to around 27°C and using fans to improve cooling efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Protecting Vulnerable Groups

Authorities have been urged to prioritise elderly people, children, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those living alone. Regular check-ins, access to cooling centres, and public awareness campaigns are essential to reduce heat-related deaths.

The WHO also warned against leaving children or animals in parked vehicles and advised against covering strollers with dry fabric, which can trap heat and increase danger.

The organisation stressed that without urgent climate action and better adaptation measures, heat-related deaths are likely to rise further in the coming years.