Germany is estimated to have recorded around 15,800 heat-related deaths this summer as the country experienced several periods of extreme temperatures, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the national public health institute.
People aged over 75 were identified as the most affected by the intense heat. The RKI estimated that about 9,600 heat-related deaths occurred in a single week in late June, when temperatures in parts of Germany exceeded 40°C.
An additional 4,000 heat-related deaths were recorded between late July and mid-August, highlighting the growing impact of prolonged periods of extreme heat.
The figures come as several European countries continue to face repeated heatwaves and rising temperatures, raising concerns over the health risks associated with extreme weather.
