Europe Heatwave Death Toll Nears 300 as Temperatures Cross 40°C

Nearly 300 people have died across Europe as a severe heatwave pushes temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, closes schools and places health services under growing pressure.

Spain has reported the highest toll. The country’s MoMo mortality-monitoring system estimated that extreme heat contributed to 212 deaths between June 21 and June 24.

However, the Spanish figure is a statistical estimate rather than a count of individually confirmed heatstroke deaths. The system compares recorded mortality with expected levels and calculates the number likely linked to high temperatures.

France has also suffered a high human cost. At least 48 people have drowned while trying to cool down since the heatwave began.

Three young children also died from heat exposure inside cars in two separate incidents, bringing France’s reported heatwave-related toll to at least 51.

Meanwhile, more than 20 people have died in swimming-related accidents in Germany since the end of last week, according to the German Life Saving Association.

Italian media also reported five deaths from heat-related incidents on Wednesday. The victims included a man who reportedly died while working in a vineyard near Piacenza.

Together, the available figures from Spain, France, Germany and Italy bring the reported and estimated toll to more than 288.

However, the national figures are not directly comparable. Spain’s total estimates excess deaths attributable to heat, while the numbers from France and Germany mainly include drownings and other incidents linked to people seeking relief from extreme temperatures.

Record Temperatures Disrupt Daily Life

The heatwave has broken temperature records across Western Europe.

Britain provisionally recorded its hottest June day after temperatures reached 36.4 degrees Celsius in southwest England. The country also extended its highest-level heat warning across large areas.

Paris recorded a June high of 40.9 degrees Celsius. France activated its highest level of health service mobilisation, allowing hospitals to postpone non-urgent procedures and focus resources on patients affected by the heat.

Authorities also closed or changed schedules at around 13,500 schools in France. More than 1,000 schools in Britain either closed or shortened their hours as temperatures inside some classrooms exceeded 40 degrees Celsius.

Italy placed several cities under red heat alerts and restricted outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day in some regions.

Heatwave Expected to Intensify

Meteorologists have linked the extreme conditions to an “Omega block,” a slow-moving weather pattern trapping hot air over Europe.

The system has pushed temperatures as much as 18 degrees Celsius above normal in some locations.

Authorities have urged residents to remain hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity and check on elderly people and others vulnerable to heat.

They have also warned against swimming in unsupervised rivers, lakes and other dangerous locations.

The death toll could rise further as the heatwave continues and public health authorities assess its full impact.