New Delhi, July 14: An intense heatwave that swept across Europe during the last week of June has claimed more than 10,650 additional lives across 27 countries, raising fresh concerns over the growing impact of extreme weather events.
According to scientific estimates, the excess deaths were recorded between June 22 and June 28, a figure experts say is significantly higher than what is normally expected during this period.
The elderly were the worst affected, with over 9,000 of the deaths reported among people aged 65 years and above. Health experts said older adults are more vulnerable to prolonged exposure to extreme heat, especially those suffering from heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and other chronic health conditions.
The record-breaking temperatures disrupted normal life in several European countries and prompted authorities to issue heat alerts, strengthen emergency health services, and advise people to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
Climate experts have warned that the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves underline the growing impact of climate change, highlighting the need for stronger preparedness and public health measures to protect vulnerable populations during extreme weather events.