A severe heatwave in Europe has left over 1,300 people dead, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning that the region is woefully unprepared for such high temperatures.

According to the WHO, the heatwave has been particularly intense in Germany, where a record high of 41.7°C was recorded. WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the situation as 'desperate', highlighting the need for urgent action to protect public health.

With temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, many regions in Europe are struggling to cope with the heat. 'This is a wake-up call for Europe,' Tedros said. 'We are not prepared for these kinds of temperatures.'

As the heatwave continues to grip the continent, governments and health experts are scrambling to put measures in place to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations. 'We need to get serious about climate change and do more to protect our citizens,' said a spokesperson for the European Commission.

elderly woman fanning herself on a sidewalk in Paris

The WHO has called for immediate action to improve heatwave preparedness in Europe. 'We need to work together to strengthen our public health systems and develop effective emergency preparedness plans,' Tedros emphasized.

firefighters battling a wildfire in Spain

The heatwave has also led to a surge in wildfires across the region, with Spain, Portugal, and Greece among the hardest-hit countries.