Rising Temperatures, Rising Risks: Heat-Related Mortality in Romania (2015–2024)

Heatwaves constitute some of the most extreme meteorological phenomena, profoundly affecting public health. Notwithstanding global focus on heat-related mortality, research on this topic in Romania remains scarce. This study seeks to estimate the impact of heat-related mortality in Romania from the summers of 2015 to 2024, a timeframe characterised by rising temperatures and extreme weather phenomena. Utilising national mortality records that include data from all regions of Romania and a population of around 19 million, we estimate the fatalities related to heat throughout this timeframe. Initial findings indicate considerable variability in death rates among locations and demographic cohorts, with elderly women (80+ years) and men aged 0–64 years being the most impacted. Results demonstrate a significant effect in metropolitan areas and locales with inadequate adaptive strategies. These findings underscore the pressing necessity for improved heat monitoring systems, focused public health initiatives, and sustainable climate adaption strategies in Romania. This study constitutes one of the initial thorough examinations of heat-related mortality in Romania, providing essential information for policy formulation and public health strategy. Recent research have emphasised the rising frequency and severity of heatwaves in Romania. In the summer of 2023, a record-breaking heatwave persisted for 19 consecutive days in southeastern Romania, spreading into Ukraine. Furthermore, studies demonstrate that the duration, spatial range, and occurrence of heatwaves in Romania exhibit decadal fluctuations, with a significant acceleration in their rise following the 1990s. The increasing frequency of heat events highlights the necessity of examining heat-related mortality in Romania to guide appropriate public health responses and policy measures.