Belgium reports 39% surge in deaths during heatwave

Belgium recorded a 39% increase in deaths above expected levels during the heatwave that affected much of western Europe between June 18 and 29, according to preliminary figures released by the country's health ministry.

It showed 1,222 excess deaths over the period, with people aged 85 and older accounting for more than half of the fatalities, Caliber.Az reports, citing Euronews.

"Such a level of excess mortality during a heatwave is unprecedented in our country," the ministry said in a statement.

The figures come as France also reported a sharp rise in mortality linked to the extreme temperatures.

Public Health France said deaths increased by 29.1% between June 22 and 28 compared with the previous week, representing an additional 2,025 deaths.

The largest increases were recorded in the Île-de-France and Pays de la Loire regions, where deaths rose by 62.8% and 62%, respectively.

Temperatures climbed above 40°C in parts of Europe last week, triggering a surge in emergency callouts and placing additional pressure on healthcare systems.

Forecasters expect another spell of hot weather to affect parts of Europe in the coming days, with temperatures in the mid-30s Celsius forecast for parts of France. Belgium is expected to remain comparatively cooler, with highs of around 26°C to 27°C on Sunday and Monday.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov