Germany records 14,000 heat-related deaths this summer as heatwaves scorch Europe
Summary
Germany recorded about 14,000 deaths linked to heat this summer, the highest since records began. Europe faced severe heatwaves and drought, causing many deaths especially among older people, as well as wildfires and low river levels.Key Facts
- Germany had around 14,000 heat-related deaths this summer, with 9,600 in one week during late June.
- The 2026 heatwave was worse than the previous record in 2018, when there were 8,900 heat-related deaths.
- Spain reported nearly 4,500 deaths related to heat since June 1, while France saw over 7,300 excess deaths.
- Most heat-related deaths in Germany were people aged over 75 years.
- Heat can cause death alone or worsen other medical conditions, making it hard to list as the direct cause of death.
- The heat and drought led to wildfires, damaged crops, and low water levels in European rivers used for shipping.
- German ministers from the Social Democrats want to include climate adaptation and nature protection in the country’s constitution.
- Hospitals and nursing homes often lack air conditioning, and German officials estimate at least 20 billion euros are needed to improve cooling and protect vulnerable people.
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