The record-breaking heatwave that swept across Europe from mid-to-late June 2026 has been one of the most intense ever recorded for the month, driven by a strong high-pressure system and amplified by climate change.
Worst-Affected Countries
France — The hardest hit overall. Multiple all-time and June temperature records were shattered (peaks above 44°C), with around 1,000 excess deaths reported during the peak days. Red alerts covered much of the country, schools closed, and emergency services were overwhelmed.
Spain — Extremely severe in the south and interior, with highs reaching 45.1°C. Hundreds of heat-related deaths were recorded, alongside wildfires and infrastructure strain.
Germany — New national record of 41.7°C, with widespread impacts on rail, power, and health. The heat shifted eastward, intensifying effects here and in neighbouring areas.
Czechia, Poland, and Hungary — All set new national or June records (Czechia at 41.9°C), with extreme heat warnings and rising health risks as the dome moved east.
Overall Toll: The WHO has linked over 1,300 excess deaths across Europe to the heat since June 21, mostly among the elderly and vulnerable. Nighttime temperatures remained dangerously high, preventing recovery.
Worst-Affected Countries
France — The hardest hit overall. Multiple all-time and June temperature records were shattered (peaks above 44°C), with around 1,000 excess deaths reported during the peak days. Red alerts covered much of the country, schools closed, and emergency services were overwhelmed.
Spain — Extremely severe in the south and interior, with highs reaching 45.1°C. Hundreds of heat-related deaths were recorded, alongside wildfires and infrastructure strain.
Germany — New national record of 41.7°C, with widespread impacts on rail, power, and health. The heat shifted eastward, intensifying effects here and in neighbouring areas.
Czechia, Poland, and Hungary — All set new national or June records (Czechia at 41.9°C), with extreme heat warnings and rising health risks as the dome moved east.
Overall Toll: The WHO has linked over 1,300 excess deaths across Europe to the heat since June 21, mostly among the elderly and vulnerable. Nighttime temperatures remained dangerously high, preventing recovery.
