German Deaths Rise 32% During Record June Heatwave

During a historic heatwave in June, Germany saw a staggering 32% rise in fatalities, with approximately 23,900 deaths recorded from June 22 to June 28. This marks an increase of 7,100 deaths compared to the two weeks prior, as reported by Germany's statistics agency. Parts of the country experienced extreme temperatures exceeding 41°C (106°F). The agency highlighted that the adverse health effects of heat are commonly noted in summer seasons. Additionally, the report adjusted its earlier estimate of heat-related deaths during the heatwave from around 6,800 to a higher figure. Outside of that last week, mortality rates in 2026 have mostly stayed consistent with or fallen below those of the past four years.