Alarming data from Germany: heatwave may have caused more than 5,400 excess deaths

According to preliminary estimates made public by the Federal Statistical Office, the severe heatwave that swept through Germany at the end of June may have been accompanied by more than 5,400 excess deaths.

In the final week of June, the number of deaths was 5,486 higher than the average for the same period during the years 2022–2025.

These days coincided with the peak of the extreme temperatures, when in some parts of the country the thermometer rose above 41 degrees Celsius.

According to experts, high temperatures pose a serious threat, especially to the elderly and people suffering from chronic illnesses.

Extreme heat can worsen existing health conditions and significantly increase the risk of mortality.

Germany ranked among the European countries hardest hit by this heatwave, which in some regions also brought new temperature records.

Scientists warn that climate change is making heatwaves increasingly frequent, longer and more intense, raising the risk to public health and increasing pressure on healthcare systems.