Europe experienced a devastating heatwave in late June, resulting in over 16,000 excess deaths across the continent in a single week, with Belgium, France, and Germany being the most affected regions. In Wallonia, a region in southern Belgium, the daily death toll on June 28 surpassed the peak daily fatalities recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analysis of mortality data indicated that Wallonia recorded 313 deaths on June 28, compared to 245 daily deaths at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in November 2020. Between mid-June and early July, the region experienced a 77% higher death rate than expected as temperatures exceeded 100 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to overburdened hospitals.
Despite the severe impact, a significant portion of European homes lack air conditioning, with only about 20-23% of households equipped, a stark contrast to the approximately 90% of American homes that have the technology. In Wallonia, only 20% of homes have air conditioning, and half of all emergency rooms in its hospitals are not air-conditioned, according to local reports. This technological disparity contributes to the vulnerability of residents during extreme heat events.
Cultural factors play a role in the reluctance to adopt air conditioning. Some Belgians reportedly do not wish to "be Americans," reflecting a cultural perception that views air conditioning as excessive or unhealthy. There is also a prevailing mindset that considers European countries to be naturally cold, leading to a greater focus on heating rather than cooling homes. Doctors have noted patient reluctance to install AC units due to fears of illness transmission or environmental harm.
Belgian officials have expressed concerns about the widespread installation of air conditioning, citing potential strain on the power grid and the exacerbation of urban heat by expelling hot air into streets. Instead, authorities are exploring alternatives such as establishing more public cooling centers and implementing policies to encourage home renovations for better insulation and ventilation.
The majority of excess deaths, approximately 85%, were among individuals aged 65 and older. Low-income seniors living alone were identified as particularly at risk. The summer's heatwaves affected other European nations, with France, Germany, and the UK also experiencing high temperatures, though their household AC penetration rates remain low, between 4-6%.