Europe is facing an unprecedented heat crisis; more than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded since June 21 due to extreme temperatures.

Axar.az reports that World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made a statement on his X account.

"Europe is the fastest-warming continent on Earth, heating at twice the global average. Right now, 150 million people are living under extreme heat, hundreds have died, schools are shut, grids are buckling," Ghebreyesus said.

He added that climate change has made what were once considered rare heatwaves a recurring event.

"Driven by climate change and global warming, the phenomenon of the 'once-in-a-generation' heatwave is now occurring nearly annual. We were warned," he said.

Tedros described heat stress as "the 'silent killer'" and said the WHO is working with member states to strengthen preparedness.

"WHO is working with its Member States and partners to address the health threats posed by extreme heat through focusing on preparedness, prevention and stronger health system responses. In particular, we are encouraging European countries to implement heat health action plans, as part of the broader agenda to protect health against climate change."