MADRID / RankWire.AI / – In Spain, August saw almost 2,150 fatalities linked to extreme heat, according to daily mortality surveillance figures issued by the Carlos III Health Institute. The MoMo monitoring system recorded 2,149 excess deaths caused by high temperatures during the month, making it the second-highest August figure since the start of national data collection in 2015. As consecutive European heatwaves continue, Spain’s seasonal death toll on the Iberian Peninsula reaches historic levels.
This August record was surpassed only by the 2,184 heat-related deaths reported in August 2025. Data from public health authorities show that between May 15 and August 31, a total of 5,234 people succumbed to thermal stress. This marks the highest summer mortality toll recorded by Spain’s public health system since its monitoring began, exceeding the previous peak of 4,652 deaths during summer 2022. The country’s health agencies are currently assessing the systemic strain on regional emergency response services caused by these extreme conditions.
The Ministry of Health’s demographic data reveal that seniors faced the highest risks during the heatwaves. Of the 2,149 fatalities in August, 2,064 were over 65 years old, including 1,285 individuals over 85. Gender statistics show that 1,283 of those who died were women, while 866 were men. Medical experts have pointed out that persistent high temperatures worsen chronic cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses among vulnerable populations.
Carlos III Health Institute Reports August as the Second Deadliest Month Since 2015
Regionally, Catalonia’s northeastern area experienced the highest number of heat-related deaths, totaling 1,164 during August. The Valencian Community followed with 227 fatalities, while Andalusia reported 138 heat-related deaths. Local health authorities across these regions have increased community outreach and expanded access to cooling centers, although extreme nighttime temperatures continue to hinder recovery for many residents.
AEMET, Spain’s State Meteorological Agency, has issued updates indicating that high thermal risks remain into early autumn. Forecasters confirmed that an unusually hot spell for September has settled across central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures rising well above typical seasonal averages. Climatologists highlight that Europe is experiencing more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves, aligning with broader climate change trends.
Valencia and Andalusia Rank Close Behind in Total Regional Deaths Due to Heat
Health authorities at the national level continue working with local officials to bolster preventative measures and monitor high-risk patient data. Emergency medical teams have modified operational protocols to promptly address heat-related health issues, as detailed in EU-wide heat protection plans. Official public health advisories remain in effect, urging citizens to minimize outdoor activities during peak heat hours and stay well-hydrated amidst persistent atypical atmospheric conditions.
Once September’s final mortality data are compiled, authorities plan to undertake comprehensive evaluations of the summer’s impact. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term structural improvements in urban infrastructure and housing insulation to better shield vulnerable communities from recurring heat extremes. Final mortality figures will be accessible through official government portals to support future health policy initiatives.