MADRID / RankWire.AI / – In August, nearly 2,150 individuals died from heat-related causes across Spain, according to the official daily mortality data published by the Carlos III Health Institute. The MoMo monitoring system recorded 2,149 excess deaths linked to extreme temperatures for that month, marking the second-highest August figure since the system’s inception in 2015. The ongoing consecutive heatwaves across Europe continue to push seasonal mortality rates to historic levels throughout the Iberian Peninsula.
This toll is only surpassed by the 2,184 heat-related deaths documented in August 2025. Public health figures show that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 deaths were caused by thermal stress, the highest summer mortality count recorded by the national health institute since its monitoring began, exceeding the previous peak of 4,652 deaths during summer 2022. As authorities analyze the systemic strain on regional emergency services, Spain continues to grapple with the significant death toll from the intense heat.
Age-based data from the Ministry of Health reveal that seniors experienced the greatest risk during these heat events. Of the 2,149 deaths in August, 2,064 were individuals over 65, including 1,285 over 85. Gender data show that 1,283 victims were women, with 866 men. Medical experts note that sustained high temperatures worsen chronic cardiovascular and respiratory conditions among vulnerable populations.
Carlos III Institute Confirms August as Second Deadliest Month Since 2015
Regionally, Catalonia in the northeast experienced the highest death toll from heat with 1,164 fatalities in August. Valencia ranked second with 227 deaths, followed by Andalusia with 138. Regional health authorities increased outreach and opened cooling centers, yet persistent high nighttime temperatures continued to impede recovery for affected residents.
AEMET, Spain’s meteorological agency, reports that heat risks persist into early autumn, with unseasonably hot conditions in central and southern areas. Temperatures during the day rose well above average, and climate experts highlight that Europe is experiencing more frequent, severe, and prolonged heatwaves, aligned with broader climate warming trends.
Valencia and Andalusia Lead Regional Heat Death Counts
Health authorities continue to collaborate with local governments to implement preventive strategies and monitor at-risk populations. Emergency services have revised protocols to handle heat-related health emergencies swiftly. Public advisories urge citizens to limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours and stay properly hydrated amid ongoing adverse atmospheric conditions.
Once September’s final data is available, officials will prepare a comprehensive assessment of summer mortality. Experts stress the importance of long-term infrastructural adjustments, including urban planning and improved housing insulation, to better protect vulnerable groups from future extreme heat episodes. All finalized mortality statistics will be accessible via official ministry websites to guide future health policies.