🔶 Robert Koch Institute: New record for heat-related deaths in Germany

🔶 Robert Koch Institute: New record for heat-related deaths in Germany

The number of deaths in Germany attributable to heat, based on data examined by the Robert Koch Institute, shows a significant increase up to August 2.

According to the institute, 2026 is a record-breaking year in terms of heat-related mortality. Previously, the highest rate of heat-related deaths had been recorded in 2018, with approximately 8,900 cases estimated.

Based on the Robert Koch Institute’s report, only in the 26th calendar week of the year—that is, from June 22 to June 28—9,600 people out of a total of 12,500 died. At the time, temperatures in parts of Germany rose to more than 41 degrees Celsius, and new records were set.

Heat rarely causes death directly. In most cases, it is a combination of high air temperatures and existing underlying illnesses—such as cardiovascular, pulmonary, or kidney diseases—that leads to death.

For this reason, heat is not recorded as the cause of death on death certificates and is also not reflected in official mortality statistics by cause. Heat-related mortality rates are calculated using statistical methods by comparing the number of deaths in summer weeks during heatwaves with weeks without heat.

According to the Robert Koch Institute, “excess deaths” in the 31st calendar week—that is, from July 27 to August 2—are currently estimated at around 14,500 cases. “Excess deaths” means that in a given time period, the number of people who die is higher than what would be expected under normal conditions.

Periods of extreme heat in Germany regularly lead to an increase in the mortality rate. The Robert Koch Institute publishes a report on the current situation every week from June to September. At the same time, the Federal Statistical Office of Germany also publishes data on heat-related mortality.

Following the increase in heatwave episodes, the Association of German Cities and Municipalities has called for improved protective measures against heat for hospitals and nursing homes. In an interview with the newspaper “Rheinische Post,” published in Düsseldorf, Ralph Spiegler, president of the Association of German Cities and Municipalities, said based on initial estimates that at least 20 billion euros in investment are needed for this purpose.

Spiegler said: “Hospitals need air-conditioning systems for patients, and also for hospital staff.” He added: “The recent heatwaves have clearly shown that hospitals as well as nursing homes and care facilities must be better prepared for such conditions.”