More than a thousand heat-related deaths in Spain in June – institute doubles previous year's figure

Last Monday and Tuesday, with average temperatures above 28 degrees, the warmest June days ever recorded in Spain were documented. According to meteorologists, this value represents an exceptional deviation from long-term averages and underscores the urgency of the debate over climate change adaptation measures.

The first half of 2026 was the hottest since records began in Spain, according to the national weather agency Aemet. The agency documented a series of heat records affecting the entire country – from the north of Galicia to the coastal regions of Andalusia.

Spain in the context of climate change

In recent years, the frequency and intensity of heat waves there have increased. Studies and statistical surveys show that phases of extreme heat now last longer and occur at shorter intervals than at the beginning of the century.

According to climate scientists, Spain is among the countries suffering most from advancing global warming. Researchers warn that the combination of geographic location, increasing urbanization and an aging population makes the country particularly vulnerable to heat stress.

The Carlos III Health Institute evaluates daily deaths in Spanish municipalities for its estimate and compares them with historical averages calculated on the basis of similar periods in earlier years. If the current figure is significantly above this expected value, the difference is classified as heat-related.

Measures and outlook

Health authorities in Spain had repeatedly warned in recent weeks about the risks of prolonged stays outdoors, particularly for older people, the chronically ill and children. Hospitals reported an increased number of emergency-room visits due to heatstroke, dehydration and circulatory problems.

The Spanish government had already activated a heat-prevention program before the summer, providing for, among other things, the establishment of air-conditioned public spaces, expanded consultation hours for at-risk groups and information campaigns in the media. Municipalities opened additional swimming pools and parks in the evening hours.

The temperature outlook for the coming weeks remains tense, according to Aemet. Model calculations suggest that further heat waves in July and August are likely, although their exact duration and intensity cannot yet be definitively forecast.

International organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) have for years pointed to the connection between rising temperatures and increased mortality, particularly in southern European countries. The latest figures from Spain will feed into this debate.