Germany has recorded an estimated 5,120 heat-related deaths so far this year, with most fatalities occurring during the intense heatwave in late June, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).
The public health agency reported that weekly average temperatures during the period rose well above 20 degrees Celsius. As a result, extreme heat placed significant pressure on vulnerable groups, particularly older adults.
According to the RKI, around 4,270 of the deaths involved people aged 75 and above. The report also found that more women than men died, largely because women represent a greater proportion of Germany’s oldest population.
The institute released the figures in its weekly report, highlighting the growing health risks associated with prolonged periods of extreme heat.
Europe Continues to Battle Deadly Heatwaves
Germany’s latest data add to mounting evidence of the severe impact of this summer’s heat across Europe. Meanwhile, the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record.
The agency said the region recorded an average temperature of 20.74 degrees Celsius during the month, underscoring the scale of the ongoing climate challenge.
In addition, national authorities have reported more than 4,700 excess deaths linked to the June 20–28 heatwave in France, Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands. These figures reflect the widespread effects of unusually high temperatures across the continent.
Health experts continue to warn that older adults and other vulnerable groups remain at the greatest risk during extreme heat events. Therefore, governments are increasing public awareness campaigns and urging residents to take precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure, and checking on elderly family members and neighbours during periods of extreme temperatures.
