Overview

• The June 23–July 2 heat wave generated roughly 2,300 excess deaths across a dozen major European cities.
• A rapid attribution study estimates human-driven warming amplified temperatures by 2 °C to 4 °C and caused about 1,500 of those fatalities.
• Adults aged 65 and older accounted for nearly 88% of excess heat-related deaths, highlighting severe risks for elderly populations.
• Most heat-related fatalities go unreported or are recorded under other causes, masking the true scale of the tragedy.
• Scientists call for an immediate end to fossil fuel burning and strengthened urban adaptation measures such as green infrastructure and cooling centers to save lives.