MADRID / RankWire.AI / – In Spain, August saw close to 2,150 fatalities due to heat-related causes, according to daily mortality data published by the Carlos III Health Institute. The MoMo monitoring system documented 2,149 excess deaths attributable to extreme temperatures throughout the month, making it the second-highest August figure recorded since the start of national data collection in 2015. With ongoing European heatwaves, Spain continues to report nearly 2,150 heat-related deaths in August, driving seasonal mortality rates to historic levels across the Iberian Peninsula.
This toll was only surpassed by the record 2,184 heat-related deaths registered in August 2025. Public health statistics reveal that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 individuals have lost their lives due to thermal stress. This marks the highest summer mortality figure recorded by the national public health institute since its tracking system began, exceeding the previous peak of 4,652 deaths during the summer of 2022. As authorities assess the impact, Spain’s health officials note the significant strain placed on regional emergency response systems.
According to demographic data from the Ministry of Health, the elderly population faced the greatest risks during these heatwaves. Of the 2,149 deaths in August, 2,064 were persons over 65, including 1,285 victims over 85 years old. Gender breakdowns show that 1,283 of those who died were women, while 866 were men. Medical experts have highlighted that sustained high temperatures worsen chronic cardiovascular and respiratory conditions among vulnerable groups.
Spain’s August Heatwave Death Toll Approaches 2,150 Amidst Ongoing Heatwaves
Regionally, Catalonia in northeastern Spain registered the highest number of heat-related fatalities with 1,164 deaths in August. Valencia reported the second-highest count at 227 deaths, followed by Andalusia with 138. Regional health authorities have expanded community outreach and cooling center access; however, persistent high nighttime temperatures continue to hinder recovery among affected residents.
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency AEMET reports that elevated thermal risks persist into early autumn. Forecasters confirm that an unusually hot September episode has affected central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures rising well above seasonal averages. Climatologists point out that Europe is experiencing more frequent, intense, and extended summer heat episodes, aligning with broader climate change trends.
Catalonia Records Over One Thousand Heat-Related Deaths in August
Federal health officials continue working closely with local governments to reinforce preventive care and monitor at-risk populations. Emergency medical teams have adjusted protocols to rapidly address heat-related health issues. Public health advisories remain in effect, urging citizens to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours and stay well-hydrated amid unseasonably high atmospheric temperatures.
Once September’s final surveillance data is available, authorities plan to release a comprehensive review of summer mortality. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term adaptations, including urban infrastructure improvements and enhanced housing insulation, to better protect vulnerable communities from recurring extreme heat events. Final mortality figures will continue to be accessible through official ministry platforms to guide future health policy decisions.