Geneva (HRNW)- More than 1,300 people have died across Europe since June 21 as an intense heatwave continues to grip the continent, placing severe pressure on healthcare and transport systems after temperatures exceeded 40°C in several countries.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the prolonged heatwave has affected multiple European nations, leading to a sharp increase in hospital admissions, emergency calls, and demand for rescue and medical services.
In a statement shared on social media, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that most homes, offices, and educational institutions across Europe were not designed to withstand such extreme temperatures, making the impact of the heatwave even more severe.
According to Public Health France, nearly 1,000 additional deaths have been recorded since Wednesday compared to the expected mortality rate, with fatalities rising significantly since June 24.
French media also reported that the number of people who have drowned while trying to cool off in rivers, canals, and swimming pools during the heatwave, which began on June 18, has reached 74.
Meanwhile, in the eastern German city of Leipzig, tram services have been disrupted after extreme temperatures caused asphalt on roads to soften and damaged tram tracks and rail joints. Authorities suspended tram operations until Monday morning to ensure public safety.
Health experts have urged elderly people, children, and individuals with chronic illnesses to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun, stay well hydrated, and follow safety precautions during the ongoing heatwave.
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