More than 800 heat-related deaths have been recorded in Germany so far in 2026, according to data released by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the country’s disease control and prevention agency. The figures do not include fatalities from the most intense days of the ongoing heatwave.

As of June 21, approximately 500 of the heat-related deaths were among individuals aged 85 and older. About 190 deaths were reported in the 75 to 84 age group, while the 65 to 74 cohort saw around 80 heat-related fatalities. Among those younger than 65, there were roughly 40 deaths attributed to the high temperatures.

The RKI’s weekly report noted that mortality rates tend to rise significantly during summer periods when average temperatures exceed 20 degrees Celsius, compared to cooler weeks. This trend highlights the broad impact of heat on vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.

The current heatwave represents one of the earliest and most severe temperature surges this year, intensifying concerns about public health and the challenges posed by climate change in Germany. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation as temperatures remain elevated.