EUROPE — The WHO Regional Office for Europe, together with Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment and the State of Berlin, has presented updated guidance on Heat–Health Action Plans during Heat Action Day in Berlin.
The new framework is designed to help governments better prepare for and respond to extreme heat, which is increasingly causing health problems and premature deaths across Europe and worldwide.
Heat: A Growing Public Health Threat
According to WHO/Europe, rising temperatures linked to climate change are driving more frequent and intense heatwaves. These conditions are associated with a rise in heat-related illnesses, worsening cardiovascular diseases, and increased mortality, particularly among older adults and people with pre-existing health conditions.
WHO Regional Director for Europe, Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, warned that Europe is warming faster than any other continent, noting that more than 200,000 people have died from heat in Europe over the past four years. He emphasized that heat is a “silent killer” but one that can be prevented with the right systems in place.
New WHO Guidance
The updated Heat–Health Action Plans Guidance provides evidence-based recommendations for authorities, building on earlier guidance first published in 2008. It outlines eight core components for effective heat preparedness, including:
• Improved early warning systems for heatwaves
• Clear public risk communication strategies
• Protection measures for vulnerable populations
• Coordination between health, social, and emergency services
• Long-term adaptation planning in urban environments
The guidance is intended to support national and local governments in developing coordinated and science-based responses to extreme heat.
Local Implementation
Germany is already implementing heat adaptation strategies at multiple levels. In Berlin, a state-wide heat–health action plan adopted in 2025 includes 72 measures aimed at protecting residents.
These measures include:
• Public awareness campaigns during summer months
• A digital “heat protection portal” with advice and maps of cool locations
• Expansion of green spaces, parks, and water areas
• Coordination across health and care institutions
Officials emphasized that heat protection requires cross-sector cooperation across government, health services, and civil society.
Climate adaptation efforts
The German Federal Government is also strengthening climate adaptation policies through legislation and funding programs that support local authorities and social institutions in implementing heat resilience measures. This includes funding climate adaptation managers in municipalities and supporting infrastructure changes that reduce urban heat.
Health Impact in Europe
Europe has been particularly affected by heat-related mortality. Data from the Robert Koch Institute shows that Germany recorded around 2,500 heat-related deaths last year alone, with older people and those with chronic conditions being most affected.
Countries including Italy, Spain, Germany, and Greece have reported the highest numbers of heat-related deaths in recent years.
WHO/Europe stressed that heat-related deaths are largely preventable. The updated guidance aims to help governments translate scientific evidence into practical action, strengthening preparedness systems and saving lives as climate change intensifies heat risks across the region.
