WHO Warns Europe Could Face ‘More Deadly Weeks’ as Another Heatwave Approaches

Health officials urge governments to strengthen emergency response plans as another intense heatwave is forecast to sweep across parts of Europe

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that Europe may experience "more deadly weeks" as meteorologists forecast another intense heatwave moving across the continent. The warning follows a prolonged period of extreme temperatures that has already placed significant pressure on healthcare systems and resulted in thousands of heat-related deaths across several countries.

WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge, said countries should remain on high alert, noting that climate-related health emergencies are becoming increasingly frequent. Health authorities have urged governments to activate heat-health action plans, expand emergency medical services and issue public advisories for vulnerable populations, including older adults, children and individuals with chronic illnesses.

Forecasts indicate temperatures in parts of Portugal and southern Spain could exceed 43°C, increasing the risk of dehydration, heatstroke and cardiovascular complications. Hospitals across several European nations are preparing for a possible rise in emergency admissions as temperatures climb again.

Public health experts say climate change is increasing both the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events, making long-term adaptation measures essential. Urban cooling initiatives, early warning systems and improved public awareness campaigns are among the strategies being recommended to reduce future health risks.

The WHO stressed that countries with established heat-health plans responded more effectively during the previous heatwave and encouraged governments across Europe to continue strengthening preparedness as the summer progresses.