2,935 “excess” deaths in Belgium due to heat

AFP – Belgium recorded 2,935 excess deaths compared to the usual number during three heatwaves that struck the country between mid-June and mid-August, according to an updated report released on Thursday by the Scientific Institute of Public Health (Sciensano).

The report includes data related to the most recent heatwave, which hit Belgium during the first half of August, with excess mortality reaching 7 percent above the usual level during that period. This represents 365 additional deaths, added to the 2,570 excess deaths reported two weeks ago for the heatwaves in June and July.

Sciensano distributed the figures by region, noting that excess deaths were higher in Wallonia (the French-speaking south) than in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking north).

These excess mortality cases were observed in Wallonia, Flanders, and Brussels in June and July (but not in August).