MADRID / RankWire.AI / – In August, almost 2,150 lives across Spain were lost due to heat-related causes, according to official daily mortality monitoring data published by the Carlos III Health Institute. The MoMo surveillance system recorded 2,149 excess deaths caused by extreme temperatures during the month, marking the second-highest August total since the start of federal data collection in 2015. With consecutive European heatwaves, Spain’s seasonal death toll continues to reach historic levels across the Iberian Peninsula.
This August death toll was only surpassed by the 2,184 heat-related fatalities reported in August 2025. Public health figures reveal that from May 15 to August 31, a total of 5,234 individuals succumbed to thermal stress. This represents the highest summer mortality figure ever recorded by the national public health institute, beating the previous summer peak of 4,652 deaths in 2022. As authorities assess the ongoing pressure on regional emergency systems, nearly 2,150 heat-related deaths have been documented for August alone.
The demographic data provided by the Ministry of Health indicates that senior citizens faced the highest risk during the heatwaves. Of the 2,149 victims in August, 2,064 were over 65 years old, including 1,285 who were over 85. Gender-wise, 1,283 of the deceased were women, and 866 were men. Medical experts highlighted 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 in the northeast recorded the highest number of heat-related deaths, totaling 1,164 during August. Following that, Valencia reported 227 fatalities, with Andalusia close behind at 138 heat-related deaths. Local public health agencies in these areas have ramped up community outreach and increased access to cooling centers. Despite these efforts, extreme nighttime temperatures continue to impede residents’ recovery from the heat stress.
According to weather reports from Spain’s State Meteorological Agency AEMET, high thermal risks are expected to linger into early autumn. Forecasters confirmed that an unusually hot September episode affected central and southern provinces, with daytime temperatures rising well above seasonal norms. Climate experts note that Europe is witnessing more frequent, intense, and prolonged summer heat waves, aligning with broader climate warming patterns.
Valencia and Andalusia Lead in Total Regional Heat-Related Deaths
In response, federal health authorities continue collaborating with local governments to reinforce preventative measures and monitor at-risk populations. Emergency medical teams have adjusted their protocols to swiftly address heat-related health complications. Public health advisories remain in effect, urging citizens to reduce outdoor activity during peak heat hours and stay well-hydrated amid persistent unseasonable atmospheric conditions.
Once September’s final surveillance data is available, officials plan to compile a comprehensive review of the summer’s mortality impact. Experts emphasize that structural changes in urban planning and improved housing insulation are crucial to protect vulnerable populations from recurring extreme heat events. The definitive mortality figures will be accessible via official government portals, aiding future health policy development.