Research indicates that extreme heat resulted in approximately 50,000 deaths across European cities this summer, with climate change cited as a significant factor in two-thirds of these fatalities. The study highlights that the elderly were particularly affected, with cities like Naples experiencing the highest mortality rates due to heat-related issues exacerbated by socioeconomic factors.
The findings reveal a concerning trend, as the proportion of heat-related deaths attributed to climate change has increased from 40% at the start of the century to 65% this summer. Health experts are calling for urgent action to address the impacts of rising temperatures on public health, emphasizing the need for improved support systems for vulnerable populations.