Newsletters
Belgium recorded 2,935 excess deaths, or 22.6% excess mortality, during summer heat waves between June 18 and Aug. 16, the public health institute Sciensano said in a report published Thursday.
The highest excess mortality was registered between June 18 and July 3, with 2,035 additional deaths, a 48.8% increase over expected levels. Sciensano said this was the highest mortality recorded during a heat wave since it began its analyses in 2000.
Starting June 18, maximum temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) were recorded for 10 consecutive days, including three days that reached around 35°C. Nighttime temperatures were also exceptionally high during the period, according to the report.
Two further heat wave periods followed, from July 4 to 17 and July 28 to Aug. 16, with lower excess mortality of 535 deaths (14.8%) and 365 deaths (7%), respectively.
While people aged 65 and older accounted for most heat wave-related deaths, Sciensano said excess mortality was also observed among younger age groups.
Europe experienced several heat waves over the summer. The U.N.'s weather agency said last month that periods of extreme heat are becoming more frequent, more intense and longer-lasting as climate change continues to warm the planet.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
2 min read
