Over 47,000 people died in Europe due to heatwave as Greece struggles with new wildfires

More than 47,000 people died as a direct result of soaring temperatures in 2023, with southern European countries like Greece bearing the brunt of the crisis according to a study published by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) on Monday.

The study highlights the escalating health risks posed by climate change. Europe is warming faster than any other continent, and the consequences are becoming increasingly apparent.

While the death toll is lower than the previous year's estimate of 60,000, researchers say it could have been significantly higher without advancements in heat adaptation measures over the past two decades. Early warning systems and improvements in healthcare have played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of extreme heat.

“Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of societal adaptations in reducing heat-related vulnerability and mortality,” said Elisa Gallo, lead author of the study.

The research analyzed death and temperature data from 35 European countries, identifying Greece, Bulgaria, Italy, and Spain as having the highest heat-related mortality rates.

Experts warn that as climate change continues to intensify, Europe must invest in further adaptation strategies to protect its population from the growing threat of extreme heat.