According to a Reuters report, the heatwave, which lasted from June 20 to June 28, is being considered one of the most severe climate disasters in recent times. During this period, there were disruptions in electricity generation, damage to infrastructure, and immense pressure on hospitals and healthcare systems.
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Severe heatwave in Europe kills 3,700 in three countries, experts blame climate change
Climate experts say the impact of global warming is making such extreme heatwaves more frequent and intense.
France's Health Minister Stéphanie Rist said 2,025 people died in the country due to the heatwave. A significant number of the deceased were over 45 years old.
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According to data from France's public health authority, the number of deaths at home between June 22 and June 28 increased by 91 percent compared to the previous week. During the same period, the death rate also rose in nursing homes and various healthcare facilities.
Authorities said the currently published statistics are preliminary. The actual death toll may increase further after detailed analysis.
According to data from Belgium's Ministry of Health, approximately 1,200 people died in the country due to the heatwave between June 18 and June 29. Among them, 530 were aged 85 or older. Additionally, it is believed that at least 180 deaths of people under 65 are linked to the heatwave.
The country's health ministry described it as one of the deadliest heatwave events in Belgium's history.
Meanwhile, authorities in the Netherlands said nearly 480 people died in the country due to the intense heat. Most of the deceased were over 80 years old.
Experts have warned that if the impacts of climate change continue, Europe may face more frequent and intense heatwaves in the future. They emphasized the need to better prepare public health systems, electricity infrastructure, and emergency services to tackle the risks of climate change.