Spain's Deadly Summer Heatwave: 25 Heatstroke Deaths and Rising Excess Mortalities
Spain's Ministry of Health has revealed a grim toll from this summer's record-breaking heat. The country experienced its hottest summer ever, with an average temperature of 24.2°C, leading to 25 heatstroke deaths and many more excess mortalities.
The Ministry used a statistical model to estimate excess mortality, rather than relying on individual clinical diagnoses. This model calculates daily deaths and compares them to historical data to determine deviations from expected mortality.
The heatwave, which peaked in August with a 16-day record, claimed four lives in wildfires. However, the majority of heat-related deaths - over 96% - were among those aged 65 or older. Many victims were at-risk patients, including those with chronic illnesses, on heat-sensitive medication, or exposed to heat at work or leisure, or living alone without air conditioning.
In total, 25 deaths were attributed to heatstroke during this period. The Ministry's statistical model provides a stark reminder of the human cost of extreme weather events. As climate change brings more frequent heatwaves, understanding and mitigating these risks becomes increasingly crucial.
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