WHO: Extreme heat-wave linked to over 200,000 deaths in Europe in four years

BERLIN, June 11 (YPA) – The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday that more than 200,000 people died as result of extreme heat-wave linked to across Europe over the past four years, warning that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and increasingly dangerous.

In a statement, the WHO noted that rising temperatures are contributing to growing health burdens each year, while also causing economic losses worth billions of dollars.

Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said that a large proportion of the heat-related deaths recorded across European Union countries and neighboring states could have been prevented.

His remarks came during the launch of new WHO guidelines aimed at protecting populations from extreme heat.

Kluge added that millions of people have also suffered physical and mental health impacts from heatwaves, describing extreme heat as one of the most immediate and deadly consequences of climate change.

Climate and public health experts continue to warn that rising global temperatures are increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves, with older adults and people with chronic illnesses facing the highest risks.

AA