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Climate Change Tripled Death Toll in Europe’s June–July Heatwave

Using a rapid attribution method, researchers link roughly 65% of the 2,300 heatwave fatalities to fossil fuel–driven warming of up to 4°C in a finding that highlights urgent adaptation needs.

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Overview

  • The study covers a ten-day span from June 23 to July 2 across 12 European cities, finding temperatures were up to 4°C higher due to human-driven emissions.
  • Researchers estimate 1,500 of the 2,300 heat-related deaths were directly attributable to intensified warming, effectively tripling the expected mortality.
  • Older adults bore the greatest burden, accounting for 88% of climate change–related fatalities, while another 183 deaths occurred among those aged 20 to 64.
  • This analysis is the first rapid attribution study to quantify excess deaths from a single heatwave using historical weather records and mortality risk models.
  • Scientists and public health experts warn existing measures fall short and call for expanded urban cooling plans, formal support systems and long-term heat adaptation strategies.