Germany records approximately 12,500 heat-related deaths

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reports that heat-related deaths in Germany have reached approximately 12,500 this year, a figure that exceeds previous annual totals and represents a conservative estimate. The mortality spike is particularly pronounced in states such as Saarland and Rheinland-Pfalz, where death rates per 100,000 inhabitants are significantly higher than the national average.

Demographic data indicates that the elderly are most at risk, with approximately 6,300 deaths occurring among individuals aged 85 and older. A major heatwave in late June, where temperatures approached 40 degrees Celsius, was a primary driver, accounting for an estimated 9,600 deaths in a single week.

In response to the rising mortality, there are growing calls for structural reforms. The social association VdK has advocated for constitutional changes to establish heat protection as a shared responsibility between federal and state governments. Additionally, experts highlight the need for improved climate resilience in urban planning and building construction to address the inadequacy of existing structures in managing extreme temperatures.