Germany's June heatwave caused 32% spike in deaths, data shows

Germany experienced a significant surge in deaths during a record-breaking heatwave in June, with official data revealing a 32% increase compared to the previous four years. Nationwide, approximately 23,900 people died between June 22 and June 28, marking an excess of 7,100 deaths over the typical figures for that period.

The sweltering weather saw temperatures in parts of Germany exceed 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit). The statistics agency's report revised upward its earlier estimate of heat-related deaths, which had been placed around 6,800. This surge contrasts with the mortality rates for the rest of 2026, which have largely stayed within the previous four-year range or even decreased.

Germany's public health authority, the Robert Koch Institute, had previously estimated over 5,100 heat-related deaths. The statistics agency's report also noted that the years 2018 and 2019 recorded the highest numbers of heat-related fatalities to date, with 8,400 and 6,900 deaths, respectively. The European Union's climate monitor confirmed that western Europe endured its hottest June on record last month.