Gaza: The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Sunday that a severe heatwave has resulted in over 1,300 deaths across Europe since June 21. The alarming numbers highlight the devastating impact of extreme weather conditions on the continent.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus shared on the platform X that the extreme heat has claimed additional lives since June 21. He emphasized that around one million individuals are currently facing exposure to these dangerous temperatures, which have led to hundreds of fatalities, school closures, and significant strain on electricity grids.
Numerous European countries have documented unprecedented temperatures during this period. Denmark experienced 37°C for the first time since 1874, the Czech Republic surpassed 40°C for the first time, reaching a peak of 40.6°C, and Germany recorded a new high of 41.5°C, with nighttime temperatures soaring to 39.5°C.
As the heatwave advanced toward northeastern Europe, countries including France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Hungary issued the highest level of heat alert. The WHO has warned that extreme heat can result in fatalities from drowning, heatstroke, heart attacks, and other related health issues.