Else Beekman
July 2025 has taken a grim spot in the record books for Alicante, with 101 lives lost to extreme heat – the highest number of heat-related deaths in a decade.
According to figures from the Ministry of Health’s MoMo system (Daily Mortality Monitoring), a total of 127 deaths in Alicante since 1 June have been linked directly to high temperatures. That’s nearly two out of every three deaths recorded in the entire Valencian Community this summer, a shocking 68%.
For context, Castellón reported 40 heat-related deaths, and Valencia just 20 in the same period.
July’s toll nearly doubles last year
The surge in fatalities is all the more stark when compared to last summer. In July 2024, there were 67 deaths from heat in the province. This year, that number soared to 101. Even June showed worrying signs, with 27 fatalities compared to just six the year before.
Only once before, in July 2015, has Alicante seen a worse month for heat-related deaths, when 156 people died from the effects of extreme temperatures. Since that year, the numbers have fluctuated, but never reached this level:
- 2016: 26 deaths
- 2017: 21 deaths
- 2018: 38 deaths
- 2019: 80 deaths
- 2020: 26 deaths
- 2021: 32 deaths
- 2022: 69 deaths
- 2023: 80 deaths
Most at risk: the elderly and vulnerable
As in previous years, the majority of deaths are among older adults and those with existing health conditions, who are particularly vulnerable to heat stress. Persistent high temperatures can quickly become life-threatening, especially during long heatwaves.
Health officials continue to urge people to stay cool, drink plenty of water, and avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day. Checking on elderly neighbours and relatives can make a real difference.
August begins more gently
Despite the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) confirming a fresh heatwave for early August, no heat-related deaths have been recorded in Alicante so far this month. This is in sharp contrast to August 2024, when the first three days alone saw 20 fatalities, following a much milder July.
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