Climate Change Intensifies Europe’s Drought Crisis as Record Heatwave Causes Thousands of Excess Deaths in France

Climate Change Intensifies Europe’s Drought Crisis as Record Heatwave Causes Thousands of Excess Deaths in France
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A team of international climate scientists has warned that climate change driven by human activity is significantly worsening drought conditions across large parts of Europe, with record-breaking temperatures becoming a more influential factor than declining rainfall in intensifying the crisis.

The warning comes as several European countries, from France to Romania, face falling river levels, water shortages, restrictions on consumption, and increasing wildfire risks following extreme summer heatwaves.

A study by the World Weather Attribution group found that rising temperatures have accelerated the loss of moisture from soil, lakes, and rivers, increasing the likelihood of severe drought conditions even in regions that have not experienced major reductions in rainfall. Researchers noted that many parts of Europe recorded below-average rainfall during the spring, but climate-driven temperature increases significantly amplified water loss and worsened drought impacts.

Scientists explained that the atmosphere can hold around 7% more water vapor for every 1°C rise in temperature, leading to higher evaporation rates and reduced soil and water availability. The warnings come as the global average temperature has already increased by around 1.4°C compared with pre-industrial levels, with continued reliance on coal, oil, and gas identified as a major driver of rising temperatures and extreme weather events.

Meanwhile, France recorded 5,764 additional deaths during a severe heatwave that affected the country between June 17 and July 2, according to the national public health agency. The figure represents the highest increase in deaths during a heatwave since the historic 2003 crisis.

Nearly half of the excess deaths occurred within just three days, between June 25 and 27, with increased fatalities recorded among people aged over 15, particularly those above 45. Authorities said the deaths cannot yet be directly attributed solely to extreme heat, but they occurred during an unusually early and prolonged heatwave that affected approximately 98.5% of France’s population across 92 departments.

People aged 75 and above accounted for nearly two-thirds of the additional deaths, highlighting the heightened vulnerability of elderly populations during extreme weather conditions.

The figures have triggered political debate in France, with opposition groups criticizing the government’s preparedness for repeated heatwaves. Health authorities have warned that rising temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events are likely to create growing public health challenges across Europe.