Swiss Re CEO criticizes underestimation of heatwave risks

Andreas Berger, CEO of Swiss Re, has sharply criticized the inadequate preparation for extreme heat events, stating that the risk of heatwaves and associated fatalities has been significantly underestimated. He emphasized the need to increase public and official awareness of the dangers posed by such prolonged periods of intense heat, calling it a "new phenomenon."

Europe has experienced a devastating summer, with over 31,800 excess deaths recorded between late June and the end of July, according to the European monitoring network Euromomo. This figure represents deaths above the average expected for the season. While the initial week of the heatwave saw the highest mortality, with over 90% of victims aged 65 and older, the numbers have since stabilized. France and Belgium reported the highest excess mortality, followed by Germany, Spain, and Italy.

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We must raise awareness of the dangers that arise from this.

Switzerland registered 357 additional deaths, primarily affecting those over 65. These are preliminary figures based on projections, and the Swiss Federal Statistical Office (BfS) noted that the number could increase to 443 if later reports exceed the threshold. The BfS clarified that directly attributing individual deaths solely to heat is not possible, as the cause of death is not recorded in this monitoring process. However, the data underscores a clear trend of increased mortality during extreme heat periods.

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The risk of heatwaves and the associated deaths was underestimated.