Record June heatwave in Belgium results in unexpectedly high mortality figures nationwide. Official health institute Sciensano reveals deaths surpassed predicted numbers by significant margin.
Between mid-June and mid-July, deaths exceeded normal levels by over two thousand.
Excess mortality rate reached highest point among major heatwaves recorded since two thousand. Deaths expanded beyond elderly women, also affecting older men and working-age males.
Walloon Region suffered worst impact, with Liège especially experiencing a sharp mortality increase. Authorities plan integrated Heat-Health Response Plan before summer twenty twenty-seven arrives.