Heatwaves Kill 35,000 in Europe—Why Aren’t They Treated Like Disasters?

Nearly 2,900 people have died in the UK, and at least 35,000 across Europe, due to this year’s early-summer heatwaves. The death toll for August’s heatwaves has not yet been counted. Experts say these deaths are the result of natural disasters—similar to the flooding that killed hundreds in Nepal last month or the 2024 floods in Valencia, Spain. Yet, heatwaves are not treated or reported with the same urgency. There are reasons for this gap. Heatwaves unfold slowly over days or weeks, unlike sudden earthquakes or tornadoes. They are less visually dramatic. Most victims are elderly or already vulnerable. And their deaths often take months to confirm and count, making the crisis seem less immediate. But experts argue that public perception can change. Recognizing heatwaves as major disasters—not just bad weather—could save lives and reduce future harm.