Belgium reports about 3,000 excess deaths over summer due to heat
From June 18 through July 3, Belgium recorded its highest excess mortality, with 2,035 additional deaths, or 48.8% above expected levels.
Public health agency Sciensano reported that Belgium experienced approximately 2,935 excess deaths during the summer of 2022, with temperatures reaching around 30°C for 10 consecutive days, including three days of 35°C. This represented a 22.6% increase in mortality compared to expected levels. The highest excess mortality occurred between June 18 and July 3, with 2,035 additional deaths, or 48.8% above the expected levels.
Sciensano noted that this was the highest recorded heatwave-related mortality since their analyses began in 2000. The periods from July 4 to 17 and July 28 to August 16 also saw excess mortality, though at lower rates of 14.8% and 7%, respectively. While older individuals aged 65 and above accounted for the majority of heatwave-related fatalities, mortality also impacted younger individuals.
Europe witnessed numerous heatwaves throughout the summer, with the UN weather agency highlighting that extreme heat events are becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged due to climate change.
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