Authorities in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands say at least 3,700 more people than usual died during a recent wave of extreme heat.
Reuters reported on Friday, July 3, that health officials in the three countries cautioned the figures are preliminary and the death toll could rise.
According to experts, the heatwave, which affected large parts of Europe between June 20 and June 28, was the most intense ever recorded on the continent.
The extreme temperatures disrupted electricity production, damaged infrastructure, and placed heavy pressure on healthcare systems.
Scientists said the unprecedented heat was highly likely to have been driven by climate change.
According to the report, France recorded 2,025 deaths during the heatwave.
Belgium’s Health Ministry also reported around 1,200 deaths between June 18 and June 29, describing the mortality during the heatwave as unprecedented in the country’s history.
