Europe Heatwave Persists as Germany Death Toll Tops 11,000
Crhk · 2 SOURCESabout 10 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Europe remains under an intense heatwave, with multiple countries recording temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius and some setting new national highs. Slovakia reached 42.2 degrees Celsius and Austria 41.2 degrees Celsius, while Germany also saw temperatures around 40 degrees during an unusually severe hot spell. In Germany, the Robert Koch Institute estimated that around 11,900 people had likely died from heat-related factors by July 26, breaking the country’s highest such toll since 2016. Italy has classified all major cities nationwide under the top-level heat warning and advised people to avoid direct sunlight, remain indoors when possible, and stay hydrated
Key Points
- Slovakia and Austria recorded new national highs of 42.2 and 41.2 degrees Celsius respectively as the European heatwave intensified
- Germany’s Robert Koch Institute estimated about 11,900 suspected heat-related deaths by July 26, a record high since 2016
- Around 9,600 of Germany’s estimated heat deaths were linked to an extreme heatwave that struck in late June
- Older Germans were especially vulnerable, with more than 2,900 deaths among those aged 75 to 84 and over 6,000 among people 85 or above
- Italy placed all major cities under the highest heat alert, urging residents and tourists to avoid sun exposure and drink water
Why It Matters
The latest figures show that extreme heat is not only a weather event but also a major public health threat, especially for elderly populations. With rare 40-degree conditions affecting multiple parts of Europe, governments are being pushed to strengthen heat warnings, public guidance, and protection measures for vulnerable groups.