Madrid, Spain – Web Desk: A devastating heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed more than 2,000 lives in Spain and France during the month of June, as authorities warn that another spell of extreme temperatures is expected to hit several European countries in the coming days.
According to official figures, 1,028 people died in Spain due to heat-related causes during June, while around 1,000 deaths were reported in France as soaring temperatures continued to grip large parts of the country.
Weather authorities have warned that Spain, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and the United Kingdom could face another intense heatwave next week, raising concerns over public health and emergency preparedness.
Meanwhile, Portugal has issued a red alert for extreme heat as temperatures continue to rise, increasing the risk of wildfires and heat-related illnesses.
The United States has also issued dangerous heat warnings for several regions, with authorities urging residents to take precautionary measures amid prolonged high temperatures.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said the current heatwave offers a glimpse of what future summers could look like as climate change accelerates. The UN health agency warned that heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and severe in the coming years.
The WHO also stressed the need for European countries to expand heat protection measures and strengthen public health systems to reduce the impact of extreme weather events.
To address the growing climate emergency, the WHO has convened an emergency meeting on July 6 to discuss Europe’s heat crisis and the increasing risks posed by climate change.
Health experts continue to advise people, particularly the elderly, children and those with underlying health conditions, to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and follow official weather advisories.
