A relentless heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed more than 1,000 lives in France while shattering temperature records across several countries, triggering widespread health emergencies, transport disruptions and environmental concerns.
French authorities reported around 1,000 excess deaths linked to the prolonged spell of extreme heat, with elderly people aged over 65 accounting for most of the fatalities. Hospitals in Paris have witnessed a sharp surge in emergency calls, which have risen by nearly 80 percent compared to the same period last year.
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Germany registered its hottest day on record after temperatures soared to 41.7 degrees Celsius. Authorities in Berlin even deployed police water cannons to help residents cool down as the heat became increasingly unbearable. Across the country, highways buckled under the intense temperatures, while railway services experienced delays due to heat-related damage.
The scorching conditions have affected nearly every corner of Europe. Denmark recorded its highest-ever temperature, while Switzerland reported alarming glacier melt. The Beznau nuclear power plant, Europe’s oldest operating nuclear facility, temporarily halted reactor operations due to rising temperatures.
Italy issued red alerts across 18 major cities, including Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice, warning residents of dangerous heat conditions. Authorities urged vulnerable groups to remain indoors and stay hydrated.
Elsewhere, several people were injured after lightning struck a tree at an amusement park in southern Sweden.
Scientists continue to warn that climate change is making extreme weather events more frequent and intense. With temperatures remaining unusually high across the continent, governments are ramping up emergency measures to protect public health while monitoring infrastructure and environmental damage caused by the unprecedented heatwave
