Germany and Belgium report record heatwave deaths

Record numbers of heat-related deaths have been reported in Belgium and Germany following intense summer heatwaves.

In Belgium, the public health agency Sciensano reported 2,935 excess deaths between June 18 and August 16. The most critical period occurred from June 18 to July 3, during which 2,035 excess deaths were recorded—a 48.7% increase above expected levels. This period marked the highest mortality rate during a heatwave since records began in 2000. While most fatalities occurred in individuals over 65, Sciensano noted increased incidents among younger age groups as well.

In Germany, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported approximately 16,300 deaths due to the heatwave as of August 23, surpassing the previous record of 15,800. The majority of these deaths involved individuals aged 75 and older. The RKI estimates that 9,600 of these deaths occurred during a particularly intense heatwave between June 22 and June 28, when temperatures reached record highs.