A record-breaking heatwave in June 2024 has led to over 12,000 excess deaths across Europe, according to a comprehensive analysis of public health data.Germany reported the highest toll at 5,780 deaths, surpassing the average of the previous six years.France recorded 2,025 excess deaths, while Belgium saw 1,747 fatalities, with a sharp spike on June 27-28.

The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Luxembourg also reported significant mortality rates, though some Central and Eastern European countries have yet to release provisional data.

Public health authorities attribute the surge to prolonged high temperatures, with vulnerable populations such as the elderly experiencing the greatest impact.The analysis highlights the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies and improved heatwave response protocols to mitigate future risks.

While the exact causal link between heat exposure and mortality is complex, the data underscores the growing health threat posed by extreme weather events linked to climate change.