Extreme heat causes deaths across Europe; infrastructure unpreparedness and urban design are key issues needing greening and cooling solutions.
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Over 1,300 deaths in Europe since June 21st are attributed to extreme heat, according to the WHO’s Director-General. Extreme temperatures pose a “silent killer” because European infrastructure was not designed for such conditions. While Greece is not currently forecast for intense heatwaves in early July, the European heatwave affecting Western Europe is expected to reach parts of Greece like Macedonia and Thessaly with temperatures around 37-38 degrees Celsius. Experts note that while Athens did not experience a heatwave in June this year, historical data shows an increasing frequency of such events, indicating a worsening climate crisis. The severity of heatwaves depends not only on temperature but also on humidity, lack of natural breezes, and the preparedness of infrastructure. In Athens, high temperatures exacerbate living conditions, particularly in densely populated areas with limited green space, highlighting issues of energy poverty as some residents restrict air conditioning use for cost reasons. Solutions proposed include urban redesign focusing on more greenery, improved public spaces, and sustainable mobility. Other European countries are also experiencing extreme heat; Romania issued a red alert with preparations including emergency first-aid stations and free water distribution. Czechia recorded record high temperatures of 41.9°C, while Germany hit a new record of 41.7°C in Coschen. In response to the escalating crisis, some political groups are proposing state subsidies for installing solar-powered air conditioning systems in vulnerable institutions like hospitals and schools.
