A new report shows that Europe children extreme heat exposure has reached alarming levels during the first half of 2026. Nearly two-thirds of children across Western Europe have already experienced dangerous temperatures, highlighting the growing impact of climate change.
According to Save the Children, the number of children exposed to extreme heat in just six and a half months is already three times higher than the total recorded during all of 2025. As a result, 2026 is becoming one of the hottest years for children in recent history.
Record Heat Exposure Across Europe
The report reveals unprecedented heat exposure across several European countries.
In Germany, more children faced extreme temperatures during the first six months of 2026 than during the previous five years combined.
Meanwhile, about 10 million children in the United Kingdom have already experienced extreme heat this year. That figure exceeds the total recorded in any single year over the past three decades.
Furthermore, researchers believe the situation could become even worse as the hottest weeks of summer continue.
Why Children Face Greater Risks
Children struggle more with extreme heat because their bodies are still developing. They also regulate body temperature less effectively than adults.
As temperatures rise, children face higher risks of:
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- Heat exhaustion
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- Dehydration
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- High fever
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- Respiratory illness
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- Kidney problems
- Electrolyte imbalance
Moreover, children living in poverty or managing existing medical conditions remain the most vulnerable.
Schools Also Feel the Impact
Extreme heat is disrupting education as well.
Several schools in France and the United Kingdom closed during June after temperatures reached dangerous levels. Consequently, thousands of students missed classroom learning.
Experts warn that future heatwaves may cause even greater disruption unless governments invest in climate-resilient schools.
Climate Action Remains Essential
Save the Children urges governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the shift toward renewable energy.
The organisation believes stronger climate policies today can reduce future heat exposure for millions of children.
In addition, previous research suggests that limiting global warming to 1.5°C could protect nearly 38 million children born in 2020 from experiencing a lifetime of unprecedented heat.
Researchers also note that countries producing the fewest emissions often suffer the worst climate impacts. Therefore, millions of children remain at greater risk despite contributing little to global warming.
As Europe experiences longer and more intense summers, experts say governments must strengthen climate policies, improve public health planning, and invest in resilient communities to better protect future generations.
