A late June heat spike coincided with a sharp rise in deaths in Belgium. New data reveal striking regional and socioeconomic patterns.
In Belgium, at the end of June during a heatwave, the highest excess mortality rate in Europe was recorded.
According to Sciensano, during the heat peak in the country, about 2,000 additional deaths were recorded, corresponding to an excess of 48%.
This figure markedly exceeded neighboring countries: in France, excess mortality was 23%, in the Netherlands 13%, despite similar temperatures.
Belgium: about 2,000 additional deaths; excess mortality of 48%.
France: excess mortality of about 23%.
Netherlands: excess mortality of about 13%.
However, when comparing Belgian data with the northern part of France, excess mortality was similar on both sides of the border.
Belgium also has a higher average urban density compared with France, which reduces opportunities for natural cooling of the urban environment and amplifies the impact of heat on residents.
It is noted that those living in lower-income regions were most affected by extreme heat.
Context of regional impacts and conclusions
This situation highlights the need for a deeper analysis of how heat affects different population groups and for identifying priority adaptation measures to climate change in the future.
Experts emphasize the importance of systemic solutions to cool urban environments and protect the most vulnerable categories of citizens.