The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that Europe must strengthen its protective measures against heatwaves, as more than 200,000 people have died from causes linked to extreme temperatures over the past four years. According to the WHO, the overwhelming majority of these deaths could have been prevented through effective protection policies and preparedness plans.
The WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Henri P. Kluge, described extreme heat as the most immediate and deadly consequence of climate change. He emphasized that heatwaves are no longer rare events but a recurring crisis that is placing increasing pressure on healthcare systems and infrastructure.
The WHO has called on governments to develop and implement comprehensive heat action plans, including the establishment of cooling centers, the expansion of green spaces in urban areas, the protection of elderly and other vulnerable groups, and the adjustment of working hours during periods of extreme heat.
According to the organization, Europe is warming faster than many other regions of the world, while population aging, urbanization, and rising temperatures are increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths.
The WHO has set an ambitious goal of reducing heat-related deaths to zero through preventive measures and coordinated action among institutions at all levels.
