Heat-related deaths in Murcia already surpass last summer's total

Health experts say prolonged periods of extreme heat are worsening existing illnesses, with older people accounting for most of the estimated deaths

Extreme temperatures have already been linked to more deaths in the Region of Murcia this summer than during the whole of last year, with health experts warning that the biggest danger isn't always heatstroke.

New estimates from Spain's Carlos III Health Institute suggest 36 people have died as a result of this summer's extreme heat. Last summer, there were an estimated 22 heat-related deaths across the entire season.

The figures come after weeks of relentless high temperatures across the Region, with another spell of intense heat expected to arrive in the coming days.

Doctors say the majority of heat-related deaths are caused by existing medical conditions becoming worse during prolonged periods of extreme heat. Patients with kidney, respiratory or heart disease whose conditions become worse because of the thermal stress.

They explained that consistently high overnight temperatures are making matters worse because the body has little chance to recover after spending all day in extreme heat.

According to the MoMo monitoring system, 27 of the 36 estimated deaths involved people aged over 75. The figures also show that 34 were women and two were men.

Nearly two-thirds of the estimated deaths occurred between Sunday July 13 and Saturday July 26, during one of the hottest periods of the summer. Temperatures climbed above 40C across much of the Region of Murcia, reaching 44.7C in Caravaca and 44.2C in Murcia city. Overnight temperatures also stayed unusually high, with minimums remaining above 24C.

Vulnerable people face the greatest risk

Family doctors say they're seeing more patients whose chronic illnesses have worsened because of dehydration and prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Conditions affecting the heart, lungs and kidneys can become much harder to manage during heatwaves, particularly among older adults and those already living with poor health.

Experts say the risk is even greater for people who live alone or don't have access to adequate cooling systems at home. Health professionals are encouraging families and neighbours to check in regularly on elderly relatives and vulnerable residents during periods of extreme heat.

The regional health authority is also reminding people that babies and young children, pregnant women, those with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, and people living with chronic illnesses or dementia are among those most at risk.

Heatstroke remains a serious medical emergency, although doctors say public awareness has improved in recent years. Anyone showing symptoms such as a body temperature above 40C, confusion or hot, dry skin should be moved to a cool place, cooled with water and 112 should be called immediately.

According to Spain's state weather agency, Aemet, expect temperatures to begin climbing again over the next few days, with highs above 40C possible in parts of Murcia from Sunday August 2. Health officials are reminding people to stay hydrated, avoid the hottest part of the day where possible and keep a close eye on anyone who may be particularly vulnerable as another heatwave approaches.

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