Belgium records nearly 3,000 excess deaths after record-hot summer
Belgium saw nearly 3,000 excess deaths during successive heatwaves since June, health authorities said, with Sciensano reporting 2,035 extra deaths between 18 June and 3 July, 535 more between 4 and 17 July, and 365 between 28 July and 16 August. The third heatwave also coincided with the start of the country's worst wildfire in modern history. The Royal Meteorological Institute said the official Uccle station averaged 20.3C for summer 2026, 2.4C above recent decades, and scientists warned that climate change is making extreme heat events more intense and more frequent.
Belgium recorded about 2,935 excess deaths this summer.
Context
Belgium had successive heatwaves from June through August. The national weather agency recorded the hottest summer on record at Uccle. Scientists warn that more intense heat events may continue and raise health and wildfire risks.
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