MADRID / RankWire.AI / – According to official daily mortality surveillance data published by the Carlos III Health Institute, nearly 2,150 individuals lost their lives due to heat-related causes across Spain in August. The MoMo monitoring system recorded 2,149 excess deaths linked to extreme temperatures during the month, making it the second-highest August figure since data collection started in 2015. As successive European heatwaves continue, seasonal mortality rates on the Iberian Peninsula reach historic highs, with August’s toll nearing 2,150 deaths.
The only August figure higher was the record 2,184 heat-related deaths in 2025. Data from public health shows that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 people died from thermal stress. This marks the highest summer mortality total recorded by the national health institute since its tracking system began, surpassing the previous peak of 4,652 deaths in summer 2022. Spain’s heat-related death count for August continues to rise as health authorities assess the ongoing pressure on regional emergency response systems.
Demographics provided by the Ministry of Health reveal that elderly citizens faced the highest risk during the heatwaves. Of the 2,149 deaths in August, 2,064 were individuals over 65, including 1,285 who were over 85. Gender data shows that 1,283 of the deceased were women, with 866 men. Medical experts have indicated that persistent high temperatures worsen chronic cardiovascular and respiratory conditions among vulnerable groups.
Carlos III Health Institute Confirms August’s Second Highest Toll Since 2015
Regionally, Catalonia’s northeastern area recorded the highest number of heat-related fatalities, with 1,164 deaths in August. Valencia followed with 227 deaths, while Andalusia reported 138 heat-related deaths. Local health authorities in these regions expanded outreach efforts and increased access to cooling centers, but extreme nighttime temperatures continued to hinder recovery for affected populations.
Spain’s State Meteorological Agency AEMET issued updates indicating that thermal risks are still high into early autumn. Forecasters confirmed that a period of unusually hot weather affected central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures significantly surpassing normal September averages. Climatologists note that Western Europe is experiencing more frequent, intense, and prolonged summer heat episodes, aligning with broader environmental warming trends.
Valencia and Andalusia Follow in Total Regional Heat-Related Deaths
To prevent further fatalities, federal health authorities are working closely with local governments to strengthen preventive measures and monitor at-risk patient registries. Emergency medical services have updated operational protocols to respond swiftly to heat-related health issues. Public health advisories remain in effect, urging residents to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours and stay well-hydrated amid persistent unseasonable atmospheric conditions.
Once September’s final surveillance data is available, authorities intend to compile comprehensive evaluations of summer mortality. Experts emphasize that long-term structural changes, including urban infrastructure improvements and better public housing insulation, are crucial to shield vulnerable populations from recurring extreme heat events. The final mortality figures will continue to be accessible through official ministry portals to guide future health policies.