Germany's health institute has attributed approximately 9,800 deaths to heat-related causes so far this year, with elderly populations facing the highest risk as extreme temperatures continue.
Germany's Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported Thursday that an estimated 9,800 people have died from heat-related causes during 2024, underscoring the mounting public health challenge posed by rising temperatures across the country. The institute issued the figures amid forecasts indicating that several regions would experience temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in coming weeks.
According to the RKI's weekly epidemiological report, elderly citizens bear the heaviest burden from heat-related mortality. Those aged 75 and older represent the largest proportion of deaths attributed to extreme heat exposure. The institute observed a significant uptick in mortality rates during weeks when average temperatures surpassed 20 degrees Celsius.
The RKI warned that ongoing heatwaves expected during the summer season would likely produce additional fatalities following similar patterns. This projection comes after Germany already endured a record-breaking heatwave in June, during which numerous regions recorded temperatures at or above 40 degrees Celsius. The institute's analysis suggests that sustained elevated temperatures pose a recurring public health threat requiring continued monitoring and preventive measures.
