Europe’s Deadly Heatwave Claims Over 1,300 Lives; WHO Warns of Systemic Crisis

Geneva / Paris / Berlin —
Europe is reeling under an unprecedented heatwave that has claimed more than 1,300 lives since June 21, with health and transport systems buckling under extreme pressure, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned that the continent’s infrastructure — homes, offices and schools — was simply not built to withstand such extreme temperatures, amplifying the deadly impact of the ongoing crisis.
France has been among the hardest-hit nations. Public Health France reported nearly 1,000 excess deaths above expected mortality rates since mid-week, with fatalities rising sharply after June 24. At least 74 people have drowned in rivers, canals and swimming pools since June 18, as desperate citizens sought relief from the scorching heat.
In Germany, the eastern city of Leipzig witnessed road asphalt melting and tram rails warping under extreme temperatures, forcing authorities to suspend tram services until Monday morning. Emergency services and hospitals across the continent are facing unprecedented call volumes and patient influxes.
Health authorities are urging the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions to avoid direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and take all necessary precautions as temperatures show little sign of abating.