Ankara: More than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded across Europe since June 21 as extreme heat grips the continent, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced on Sunday. The alarming statistics underscore the severe impact of the ongoing heat wave affecting millions across the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ghebreyesus highlighted the rapid warming of Europe, stating that it is "the fastest-warming continent on Earth," with temperatures rising at twice the global average. The situation is affecting approximately 150 million people who are currently living under extreme heat conditions. He emphasized the widespread consequences, noting that "hundreds have died, schools are shut, grids are buckling," and warned that climate change is progressively making these once-rare heat waves more frequent.

Ghebreyesus further explained that climate change and global warming are driving the occurrence of these "once-in-a-generation" heat waves, which are now happening almost annually. He cautioned, "We were warned," referring to previous predictions about the increasing frequency of such extreme weather events. He described heat stress as a "silent killer," pointing out that European infrastructure, including homes, workplaces, and schools, are not adequately designed to handle the elevated temperatures.

The WHO, as stated by Tedros, is actively collaborating with member states and partners to enhance preparedness, prevention, and health system responses to extreme heat, aiming to mitigate the effects on the population and prevent further casualties.