Heatwave in Europe Causes Estimated 2,300 Deaths, Study Finds

A heatwave in Western Europe has caused an estimated 2,300 deaths across 12 cities, with 1,500 linked to climate change. Researchers used epidemiological models and historical mortality data to estimate the death toll. The heatwave was exacerbated by climate change, which increased temperatures by up to 4°C in some cities.

A recent heatwave in Western Europe has resulted in an estimated 2,300 deaths across 12 cities, with 1,500 of these deaths directly linked to climate change. Researchers from World Weather Attribution, in collaboration with Imperial College London and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, conducted a study using epidemiological models and historical mortality data to estimate the death toll [1].

The heatwave, which occurred between June 23 and July 2, saw temperatures soar up to 4°C higher than they would have been without the influence of climate change. This increase in temperature was attributed to human-driven climate change, which has been exacerbating heatwaves globally [1].

The study found that the majority of deaths, around 65%, would not have occurred without the influence of climate change. Older individuals, particularly those aged 65 and over, were disproportionately affected, with 88% of the excess deaths being among this age group. This highlights the vulnerability of the elderly to extreme heat conditions [1].

The heatwave had significant implications for various sectors, including agriculture and infrastructure. In Italy, for instance, outdoor work schedules were limited due to the extreme temperatures, while in France, over 1,300 schools and some nuclear reactors were shut down. Additionally, wildfires erupted across the Mediterranean, further exacerbating the situation [1].

The study underscores the urgent need for climate action. As heatwaves become more frequent and intense due to global warming, the health and economic impacts are likely to increase. Investors and financial professionals should consider these risks when evaluating long-term investment strategies and assessing the resilience of different sectors to climate change.

References:
[1] https://earth.org/death-toll-of-european-heatwave-3-times-higher-because-of-climate-change-analysis-shows/
[2] https://wiky.com/2025/07/07/world-court-to-issue-climate-change-opinion-on-july-23/
[3] https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jul/09/europe-june-heatwave-study-climate-breakdown-tripled-death-toll