Germany reports nearly 10,000 heat-related deaths in 2026 as extreme temperatures continue

Germany's Robert Koch Institute reports that an estimated 9,800 people have died from heat-related causes in 2026, with those aged 75 and older being the most affected. The country experienced record-breaking temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius in June 2026, and similar extremes are expected to hit multiple regions. Mortality rates rise significantly when average weekly temperatures exceed 20 degrees Celsius, prompting officials to warn of further heatwave casualties.

Heat-related deaths in Germany

• ▪Germany's Robert Koch Institute reported on July 30, 2026, that an estimated 9,800 people in Germany have died from heat-related causes in 2026.
• ▪The Robert Koch Institute reported that the largest proportion of heat-related deaths in Germany occurs in the age group of 75 and older.

Extreme temperature patterns

• ▪Several regions in Germany are expected to experience temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius following the July 30, 2026 report.
• ▪Germany experienced a record-breaking heatwave in June 2026, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius or more in many regions.

RKI mortality analysis

• ▪Germany's Robert Koch Institute anticipates that heatwaves occurring during the summer of 2026 will lead to increased mortality.
• ▪Germany's Robert Koch Institute reported that the mortality rate rises significantly during weeks with average temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius.

1 source