Nearly 10,000 European heatwave deaths spur WHO to demand hospital protections

The World Health Organization has recorded nearly 10,000 excess deaths across five European countries this summer, all linked to extreme heat, Qazinform News Agency reported. In response, the WHO has issued urgent new guidance for the continent, calling on governments to prepare their healthcare systems for rising temperatures.

Europe is the fastest-warming continent, with temperatures rising at roughly twice the global average, according to the UN. The WHO described extreme heat as an urgent and growing public health threat driven by climate change, urbanization, and population aging.

"heat-proof" their hospitals and health systems

un.orgWHO urges Europe to heat-proof hospitals as continent faces deadly heatwave crisis

The organization's directive underscores the need for healthcare infrastructure capable of withstanding the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves. The nearly 10,000 excess deaths this summer, reported by Qazinform News Agency, highlight the deadly consequences of inaction.

As Qazinform News Agency noted, Europe faces a growing public health threat from extreme heat. The WHO's call for heat-proofing hospitals represents a concrete step toward mitigating the impact of future heatwaves on vulnerable populations.