Europe is experiencing a record-breaking heatwave, with temperatures rising at twice the global average, putting intense pressure on health systems and communities. Data from five countries indicate nearly 10,000 excess deaths linked to the major heat this summer.

The World Health Organization (WHO) described heat as an urgent and growing public health threat driven by climate change, urbanization, and population aging. Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, stated that in the past four years alone, heat has claimed more than 200,000 lives, and heat-related mortality has increased by 30% over the past 20 years.

Dr. Kluge emphasized that "heat deaths are not inevitable" and highlighted protective measures such as early community warnings, cooling cities, ensuring access to water and shade, monitoring vulnerable populations, and preparing health systems ahead of temperature peaks.

To support these efforts, WHO has issued new guidance to strengthen Heat–Health Action Plans (HHAPs). These plans link weather alerts to public health measures including outreach to at-risk individuals, cooling spaces, hospital surge planning, and public advice.

WHO is also advancing the Hospital Safety Initiative, which uses the Hospital Safety Index to evaluate whether health facilities can remain operational during emergencies.

In the UK, the Adverse Weather and Health Plan employs a colour-coded alert system developed with the national Met Office. This system connects each alert level to practical actions for health services, local authorities, community groups, and the public. In May, amber alerts were issued in anticipation of record-breaking temperatures reaching 35.1 degrees Celsius.

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UN News: ‘Heat deaths are not inevitable’: WHO pushes Europe to heat‑proof its hospitals