MADRID / RankWire.AI / – The Spain experienced close to 2,150 fatalities linked to heat in August, as revealed by official daily mortality surveillance data issued by the Carlos III Health Institute. The MoMo monitoring system reported 2,149 excess deaths caused by extreme temperatures during the month, marking it as the second-highest August figure since the start of national data collection in 2015. With ongoing European heatwaves, Spain’s seasonal death toll continues to hit historic levels across the Iberian Peninsula.
The only August surpassing this number was 2025, with a record 2,184 heat-related deaths. Data from public health sources indicate that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 lives were lost due to thermal stress. This is the highest summer mortality tally recorded by Spain’s public health institute since the tracking system’s inception, exceeding the previous peak of 4,652 deaths during summer 2022. As authorities assess the systemic strain on regional emergency services, nearly 2,150 heat-related deaths in August underscore the ongoing impact of extreme weather conditions.
According to demographic data provided by the Ministry of Health, older adults faced the greatest risks during the heatwaves. Of the 2,149 deaths registered in August, 2,064 were individuals over 65, including 1,285 who were over 85. Gender data showed that 1,283 of the deceased were women and 866 were men. Medical experts highlight that sustained high ambient temperatures worsen chronic cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses among vulnerable groups.
Carlos III Institute Confirms August Death Toll Second Highest Since 2015
Regionally, Catalonia’s northeastern area registered the highest number of heat-related fatalities, with 1,164 deaths in August. Valencia followed with 227 deaths, while Andalusia reported 138 heat-related fatalities. Municipal health authorities across these regions expanded outreach campaigns and increased access to cooling centers, but persistent high nighttime temperatures continued to impede recovery for affected populations.
Spain’s State Meteorological Agency, AEMET, reports that high thermal risks remain into early autumn. Forecasters note that a period of unusually hot weather for September has settled over central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures significantly exceeding seasonal norms. Climatologists point out that Europe is experiencing more frequent, intense, and extended summer heat episodes, consistent with broader global warming trends.
Valencia and Andalusia Lead Regional Heat-Related Deaths
Health authorities across the country continue collaborating with local governments to strengthen preventive care strategies and track high-risk patient populations. Emergency medical services have revised operational protocols to swiftly address health issues caused by heat. The national public health advisories remain in effect, urging citizens to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours and stay properly hydrated amid ongoing abnormal atmospheric conditions.
Once September’s final surveillance data is available, authorities plan to release comprehensive mortality reviews for the summer. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term infrastructural adaptations, such as urban planning and improved housing insulation, to better shield vulnerable communities from recurring extreme heat events. The official mortality figures will continue to be accessible through government portals to support future health policy efforts.