June heatwave kills 3,700 people across three European countries

France, Belgium, and the Netherlands have reported nearly 3,700 additional deaths linked to the intense June heatwave that pushed temperatures to extreme levels across Europe. According to the media reports, officials cautioned that the death toll remains provisional, which could rise further. The heatwave, which gripped much of Europe between June 20 and June 28, ranks among the most severe ever experienced on the continent. The soaring temperatures disrupted electricity production, damaged infrastructure, and placed heavy pressure on healthcare services. Scientists have also pointed to climate change as the primary factor behind the unusually intense weather conditions. In France, authorities recorded 2,025 excess deaths during the period. French Health Minister Stephanie Rist said fatalities rose sharply, particularly among people over the age of 45. According to France’s public health agency, deaths occurring at home surged by 91 per cent between June 22 and June 28 compared to the previous week. Nursing homes and medical care facilities also saw a notable increase in fatalities. Officials warned that the final death toll is expected to surpass the current preliminary estimates. Belgium’s Health Ministry reported approximately 1,200 excess deaths between June 18 and June 29. Of those, around 530 victims were aged 85 or above, while roughly 180 deaths involved individuals younger than 65. Authorities described the mortality spike during the heatwave as unprecedented for the country. In the Netherlands, officials estimated that extreme temperatures caused nearly 480 additional deaths, with the majority of victims reported among people aged over 80. The deadly heatwave has once again highlighted Europe’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events, with scientists warning that climate change is making such severe and prolonged heat episodes increasingly frequent. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Partner to Build Cricket Stadium in Jeddah