MADRID / RankWire.AI / – Official data from the Carlos III Health Institute reveal that nearly 2,150 individuals succumbed to heat-related causes across Spain during August. The MoMo monitoring system registered 2,149 excess deaths linked to extreme temperatures throughout the month, marking the second-highest August figure since data collection started in 2015. As consecutive European heatwaves persist, seasonal mortality rates across the Iberian Peninsula continue to reach historic levels.
This August death toll was only surpassed by the record 2,184 heat-related deaths registered in August 2025. Public health figures show that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 lives were lost due to thermal stress. This represents the highest summer mortality figure recorded by the national public health institute since the implementation of the tracking system, exceeding the previous peak of 4,652 deaths during summer 2022. While Spain reports nearly 2,150 heat-related deaths in August, health authorities are actively assessing the systemic load placed on regional emergency response systems.
Data provided by the Ministry of Health indicates that older adults experienced the greatest risk during the heatwaves. Of the 2,149 victims in August, 2,064 were over 65 years old, with 1,285 victims over 85. The gender breakdown shows 1,283 women and 866 men among the deceased. Medical experts have highlighted that persistent high ambient temperatures worsen chronic cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Carlos III Health Institute Confirms Second Highest August Death Toll Since 2015
Regionally, Catalonia in the northeast registered the highest number of heat-related fatalities, with 1,164 deaths reported in August. Valencia followed with 227 deaths, then Andalusia with 138. Regional health agencies have ramped up community outreach efforts and increased access to cooling centers, although extreme nighttime temperatures continue to impair recovery for affected residents.
According to forecasts from Spain’s State Meteorological Agency AEMET, high thermal risks are expected to persist into early autumn. Meteorologists confirmed that a period of unusually hot weather for September affected central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures rising well above seasonal norms. Climatologists point out that Europe is experiencing more frequent, intense, and prolonged summer heat episodes, consistent with broader climate warming trends.
Valencia and Andalusia Lead Regional Heat-Related Death Counts
National health authorities continue collaborative efforts with local governments to reinforce preventative care and oversee high-risk patient lists. Emergency medical services have revised operational procedures to respond swiftly to heat-induced health complications. Ongoing public health advisories encourage citizens to minimize outdoor activity during peak heat hours and stay well-hydrated amid persistent unseasonable weather conditions.
Once September’s final surveillance data are available, authorities plan to compile comprehensive evaluations of summer mortality. Experts emphasize that long-term structural adaptations, including urban infrastructure improvements and better insulation in public housing, are essential to protect vulnerable communities from recurring extreme heat events. Updated mortality figures will be accessible via official ministry platforms to support future health policy planning.