The intense heat wave recorded in Spain between mid-May and mid-July has led to an unusually high number of heat-related deaths. According to data shared by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) , the Carlos III Health Institute , and the Ministry of Health , 1.180 deaths attributed to heat have occurred since the activation of the heat emergency plan in this short period. This represents an increase of more than 1.300% compared to the same period last year , when only 70 deaths were recorded.
The phenomenon has been particularly striking in communities like Galicia, La Rioja, Asturias, and Cantabria , northern regions where summers used to be characterized by milder temperatures and now show a marked increase in vulnerability to heat waves. Experts warn that this situation could be related to a lack of structural and social adaptation to extreme weather events in these areas.
Victim profile and demographic distribution
Detailed analysis of the fatal cases reveals that the vast majority, 95% , correspond to people over 65 years of age . Of this group, approximately six out of ten were women . Factors such as women's greater longevity and specific physiological characteristics influence their greater exposure to risk during these heat waves.
Temperature alerts and records
During these two months, 76 red alerts for high temperatures have been issued , the highest number since records began, while none were activated during this period last year. Data from AEMET (the Spanish State Meteorological Agency) shows that June reached an average temperature of 23,6°C , exceeding the previous record of 2017 by 0,8°C and placing it 3,5°C above the 1991-2020 climate average. To better understand how climate change is increasing these extreme events, you can consult the impact of climate change on heat waves.
Among the deaths recorded, ten were directly caused by heatstroke , affecting various age groups, although the elderly predominated. The first part of July reflected a 47% increase in heat-related deaths compared to the entire month of June, demonstrating that the trend is not only growing but worsening as summer progresses.
This alarming increase in heatwave-related mortality places Spain at the top of the list of Europe affected by recent weather events. The Ministry of Health and other relevant agencies emphasize the importance of preventative measures and the need to adapt infrastructure and raise public awareness in the face of increasingly extreme weather.
The number of deaths and the record of extreme temperatures highlight the challenges facing both the healthcare system and society as a whole in the face of advancing climate change. Extreme heat is having far more serious consequences than anticipated , especially for vulnerable groups and regions not previously considered at risk.
