MADRID / RankWire.AI / – As record-breaking temperatures continue across parts of Europe, Spain reported close to 2,150 fatalities caused by heat-related factors in August. The official daily mortality data published by the Carlos III Health Institute reveals that the MoMo monitoring system documented 2,149 excess deaths linked to extreme heat during the month. This figure ranks as the second-highest August total since the start of national data collection in 2015. The persistent heatwaves across Europe have driven seasonal mortality rates to historic levels across the Iberian Peninsula.
The August death toll was only surpassed by the record 2,184 heat-related fatalities recorded in August 2025. Data from public health sources indicates that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 people succumbed to thermal stress, marking the highest summer mortality figure ever reported by the national public health institute. This surpasses the previous summer peak of 4,652 deaths in 2022. While Spain continues to see nearly 2,150 heat-related deaths in August, health officials are assessing the pressure on regional emergency response systems caused by these extreme conditions.
According to demographics provided by the Ministry of Health, the elderly population faced the greatest risks during the heatwaves. Of the 2,149 victims recorded in August, 2,064 were over 65 years old, including 1,285 individuals aged over 85. Gender data shows that 1,283 of those who died were women, with 866 men among the victims. Medical experts have observed that high sustained temperatures worsen pre-existing cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses in vulnerable groups.
Spain Records Nearly 2,150 Heat-Related Deaths in August Surge
Regionally, Catalonia in the northeast reported the highest number of heat-related fatalities with 1,164 deaths during August. Valencia followed with 227 deaths, and Andalusia recorded 138 heat-attributed fatalities. Local health authorities in these regions have expanded outreach programs and increased access to cooling centers. However, persistently high nighttime temperatures continue to hinder recovery among affected populations.
Meteorological updates from Spain’s State Meteorological Agency AEMET show that the risk of thermal stress remains high into early autumn. Forecasters have noted an unusually hot September across central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures rising well above seasonal averages. Climatologists highlight that Europe, particularly Western Europe, is experiencing more frequent, intense, and prolonged heat episodes, which align with broader global warming trends.
Catalonia Records Over One Thousand Heat-Related Deaths in August
Meanwhile, national health authorities are working closely with regional agencies to strengthen preventative measures and monitor high-risk patient registers. Emergency medical services have revised protocols to respond swiftly to heat-related health issues. Public advisories remain active, urging the public to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours and stay well-hydrated amid ongoing unseasonal atmospheric conditions.
Once September’s final surveillance figures are available, authorities plan to compile a comprehensive analysis of summer mortality. Experts emphasize that long-term investments in urban infrastructure and improved housing insulation are vital to safeguard vulnerable communities from recurring extreme heat events. Final mortality data will continue to be accessible through official ministry portals to guide future public health policies.