The World Health Organization has reported over 1,300 excess deaths linked to the extreme heatwave sweeping across Europe since June 21. With 150 million people affected, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called heatwaves „silent killers” as temperatures shattered records in France, Britain, Germany, and Poland.
In a statement posted on X, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that Europe is the fastest-warming continent on Earth. He noted that heatwaves once described as historic now occur every year due to climate change. The WHO is working with member states to prepare for future heatwaves and strengthen healthcare systems.
France’s National Public Health Agency reported approximately 1,000 excess deaths since last Wednesday compared to previous months. The heatwave in France has been more intense than ever before, with records falling across the country. Similar unprecedented temperatures were recorded in the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
Poland breaks national heat record
The heatwave has also reached Poland. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management issued warnings for nearly the entire country, valid through Monday. Daytime temperatures could reach 42°C, with nighttime lows around 25°C. The previous Polish record of 40.2°C, set in Prószków in 1921, was broken on Sunday.
– According to telemetric and operational data, Toruń recorded 40.3°C, Słubice 40.5°C. At this moment we can say the record has fallen – said Agnieszka Prasek, spokesperson for IMGW, in an interview with Polsat News.
Heatwaves as silent killers
Tedros stressed that Europe’s infrastructure – homes, schools, workplaces – was not built for such extreme temperatures. He described heatwaves as „silent killers” because their deadly impact is often underreported until after the event. The WHO is focusing on preparedness and strengthening health systems to cope with recurring extreme heat.
The scale of the crisis is alarming: 150 million Europeans are currently exposed to dangerous temperatures. With climate change accelerating, these events are expected to become more frequent and intense. Authorities across the continent are urging people to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
As the heatwave begins to subside in some western European countries, the full toll of deaths and hospitalizations is still being calculated. The numbers from WHO and national agencies provide a stark warning for the future.
Źródło: Polsat News, Fot. Polsat News
