The extreme heat that swept across Western Europe has claimed far more lives in Belgium than expected. Authorities announced that excess mortality recorded during the heatwave reached the highest level ever observed in the country.
According to preliminary data released by the Belgian Ministry of Health, deaths between June 18 and June 29 were 39 percent higher than expected. A total of 1,222 deaths were recorded during this period. Of these, 530 were people aged 85 and over, while 180 deaths occurred among individuals under the age of 65.
The ministry stated, “This level of excess mortality during a heatwave has reached an unprecedented level in our country.”
Another Heatwave Set to Hit Europe
Last week, temperatures exceeded 40°C in parts of Europe, leading to a sharp increase in emergency calls and placing significant pressure on hospitals.
According to meteorological forecasts, another heatwave is expected to affect the region in the coming days. Temperatures in parts of France could once again reach around 35°C, while Belgium is forecast to see temperatures of 26–27°C early next week.