Deaths spike in Europe as Record Breaking Temperatures Sweep the Continent

In the past few days, a massive heat wave has swept across Europe, deeply disrupting millions of people in their daily routines, and killing hundreds more. Public health institutes and medical experts have urgently warned that severe health problems are directly linked to the extreme weather.

Globally, this May was one of the hottest ones in 177 years. From fatal temperatures over 50 degrees Celsius in parts of India to nearly 40 degrees in Europe, these cities are struggling to adapt to the extreme weather. This heatwave is the second to hit Europe in two months, and, due to the usual temperate weather in the summer months, many of the countries affected are not accustomed to summer heat. Buildings in Europe not only lack air conditioning, but were built to trap heat inside for the winter months.

Outdoor workers and the elderly are the most vulnerable to this heat. Many, such as construction workers, are unable to work. Not only did the heatwaves disrupt daily life and cause hundreds of deaths, but they also led to nationwide power outages across parts of France. The temperatures have broken multiple records in countries across Europe.

In Spain, temperatures have reached a sweltering 38 degrees Celsius, and statistics have labeled over 200 deaths as a result of the heat.

In Italy, according to ANSA, the country’s news agency, six people have died from the temperatures, including one homeless man, highlighting the dangers to people who have no choice but to stay outside. Many of the other five perished when working outside, from the exposure to the heat.

In France, over 40 have drowned from swimming in unsupervised areas in an attempt to cool down. 3 more children have died in parked cars, as the heat trapped inside can be deadly to small children.