From Melting Cars and Roads to Rising Deaths: Europe's Heatwave Emergency
Europe's record-breaking heatwave has caused over 1,300 deaths, disrupted daily life, and exposed how climate change has made the continent increasingly vulnerable.
Europe is experiencing one of the worst heatwaves in its history, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in many countries and crossing 45°C in some areas.
Researchers estimate the heat has contributed to more than 1,300 deaths across Europe since 21 June 2026. Hospitals are treating a surge of heat-related illnesses, while warm nights—often staying close to 30°C—are preventing people from recovering from daytime heat, especially older adults.
The World Health Organization says Europe is the fastest-warming continent, heating nearly twice as fast as the global average.
Around 150 million people are under extreme heat alerts. Schools have closed in some regions, electricity systems are under pressure, and governments are urging people to stay indoors, drink plenty of water and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat.
The heat has also triggered viral social media videos showing eggs frying in the Sun, chocolates melting in shops, shopping carts warping, shoes softening, bananas slipping out of their peels and cars being damaged. While many videos have attracted attention, not all have been independently verified.
In Berlin, police used water cannons to help people cool down. Extreme heat has also damaged roads and railway lines. In Leipzig, tram services were suspended after tracks bent in the heat.
France has been among the worst-hit countries, with officials reporting around 1,000 excess deaths during the heatwave. Mortuaries are operating well above normal capacity. Hungary has opened more than 2,000 free cooling centres for residents.
The hot, dry conditions have also fuelled forest fires. Croatia is battling wildfires, particularly on the island of Vis, while zoos are giving animals frozen fruit and meat to help them stay cool.
Many people have questioned why temperatures of 43–48°C in India often receive less global attention than Europe's heatwave. Experts say the difference is not just the temperature but preparedness.
Unlike India, Europe is not built for prolonged extreme heat. Many homes are designed to retain warmth during winter, with thick insulation and limited ventilation, making them difficult to cool in summer. Only about one in five European homes has air conditioning, and installing AC units is often costly or restricted in historic buildings. High electricity prices and environmental concerns have also discouraged widespread AC use.
In contrast, people in India have long adapted to extreme heat through building design, daily routines and lifestyle.
Scientists report that nearly 45% of around 850 European cities recorded their hottest June on record. As heatwaves become more frequent, demand for air conditioners and fans is rising. Experts warn that without significant cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, future heatwaves are likely to become more frequent, longer-lasting and even more dangerous.
