GENEVA: More than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded across Europe since June 21 as an intense heatwave continues to grip large parts of the continent, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Temperatures of over 40 degrees centigrade have been registered in several countries in Europe this week, putting pressure on the health system as emergency calls soar.
In a social media message on Sunday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that homes, offices, and schools in Europe had not been built to tolerate such high temperatures.
Santé publique France said around 1,000 deaths had occurred above normal in the country since Wednesday. According to the organization, deaths had increased significantly since June 24.
The tram services in the eastern German city of Leipzig had been halted until Monday morning after damage was done to infrastructure by extreme heat.
The authorities said extreme temperatures had made asphalt roads soft as well as tram tracks and rail joints, rendering rail traffic hazardous.
Meteorologists have warned that the heatwave is expected to persist in parts of Europe, with authorities urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and follow public health advisories.
