Extreme heat in Europe caused more than 3,700 excess deaths in France, Belgium and the Netherlands

Following last week’s heatwave, thousands of excess deaths were recorded across Europe, mainly among elderly people. During that period, Paris and other European cities faced temperatures that reached and exceeded 40°C.

According to experts, the June heatwave, which lasted roughly from June 20 to June 28, was the worst ever recorded in Europe. In France, Belgium and the Netherlands alone, more than 3,700 excess deaths were reported as a result.

Authorities said these figures remain preliminary and could rise further. In France, 2,025 excess deaths were recorded, according to Health Minister Stéphanie Rist, or 29.1% above the usual level. Although most of the victims were over 65, the French Public Health Institute also found a significant increase in deaths among the 45-64 age group.

During the period from June 22 to June 28, the number of deaths at home rose by more than 90% compared with the previous week. Deaths also increased in nursing homes and healthcare institutions.

“The mortality rate may rise even further than these initial figures suggest,” the French public health authority warned. Meanwhile, Belgium recorded more than 1,200 excess deaths between June 18 and June 29, or about 39% more than the normal level.

“Such a level of mortality during a heatwave is unprecedented in our country,” the ministry said in a statement, highlighting that Belgium experienced “seven tropical days with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, as well as exceptionally warm nights.”

Record temperatures were also recorded in Germany, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Hungary, while the United Kingdom and Switzerland posted their highest temperatures for the month of June.