Heatwave Claims 3,700 Lives in France, Belgium and the Netherlands

At least 3,700 people have died across France, Belgium and the Netherlands as a severe heatwave swept through Europe, authorities in the three countries have confirmed. Officials warned that the death toll could rise further, while scientists said the extreme temperatures were almost certainly driven by climate change.

The figures, released by national authorities over the past month, underscore one of the most devastating heatwaves in Europe's history. The prolonged heat has disrupted electricity production, damaged infrastructure and placed immense pressure on healthcare systems.

French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist said on Friday (July 3) that the country recorded 2,025 excess deaths during the heatwave. The mortality rate increased significantly among people aged 45 and above.

Belgium's Health Ministry reported on Thursday that nearly 1,200 people died between June 18 and 29. Of those, 530 were aged 85 or older, while 180 deaths were recorded among people under the age of 65.