GENEVA, June 28, 2026 (WAFA) – The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Sunday that more than 1,300 people have died due to a severe heatwave affecting Europe since June 21.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a post on the platform X that over 1,300 additional deaths have been recorded since June 21 as a result of extreme heat.

He added that around one million people are currently exposed to extreme temperatures, with hundreds of deaths reported, schools closed, and electricity grids under severe strain.

Several European countries recorded record-breaking temperatures, including Denmark (37°C for the first time since 1874), the Czech Republic (exceeding 40°C for the first time, reaching 40.6°C), and Germany (a new high of 41.5°C, with nighttime temperatures reaching 39.5°C).

As the heatwave moved toward northeastern Europe, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Hungary declared the highest level of heat alert.

The WHO noted that extreme heat can lead to fatalities caused by drowning, heatstroke, heart attacks, and other complications.

K.T