RKI counts around 9,600 deaths following an extreme heatwave in June

Those affected were, in the RKI's assessment, predominantly older and with pre-existing conditions. Particularly older people, who are less able to compensate for heat on their own, and persons with cardiovascular or respiratory diseases are at risk. The Federal Statistical Office had also documented elevated death figures in comparable heat periods in the past, without being able to clearly attribute them to temperature in each case.

Who is particularly affected

According to the RKI, the data come from an ongoing evaluation of mortality statistics that are cross-referenced with temperature records from the German Weather Service (DWD). The DWD had classified the week in question as a pronounced heatwave. The communication also states that the actual number of heat-related deaths also depends on the definition and the available data.

The finding comes in a phase in which the federal government, states, and aid organizations are intensifying their preparations for further hot summers. At the beginning of 2024, the German Bundestag extended the program "Deutschland lernt schwimmen" for four years; the federal government intends to focus on structurally weaker regions together with the DLRG and the German Swimming Association. Heat protection is considered part of a broader strategy for adapting to climate change.

What the federal government, municipalities, and aid organizations are doing

At the same time, municipalities and social welfare organizations are expanding their support services. DLRG President Ute Vogt had repeatedly pointed out that education about risks, cool rooms, and neighborhood help can save lives. Aid organizations such as Caritas and the German Red Cross also offer phone contacts and home visits for at-risk older people in affected neighborhoods.

The RKI evaluation is understood as an interim status. A final number of heat-related deaths can only be determined after further epidemiological analyses, it was said in Berlin. Researchers such as Jenifer Girke of the RKI emphasize that mortality during heatwaves is well documented worldwide, but national estimates remain subject to uncertainties.

What heat protection means in everyday life

For the coming years, climate researchers expect a clustering of such extreme phases. The RKI recommends a bundle of measures: warning systems, cool public spaces, drinking water offerings in public spaces, and targeted information for older people and caregiving relatives. Urban planning and climate adaptation – such as greening, shading, and cool nights – also play a central role, according to experts.

The Institute calls for the results to be read not only as a statistical indication but as a mandate for action. In view of the rising number of hot days per season, heat protection must be permanently anchored in health and social policy, comparable to protection against other environmental risks.

Experts also point out that the simple rule of thumb "drink, cool down, inform" continues to apply: sufficient water, light clothing, cool rooms during the day, and keeping an eye on older neighbors.

Overall, the current RKI assessment makes clear that heatwaves in Germany are no longer a marginal phenomenon, but represent a relevant health risk – with measurable consequences for mortality.

With information from dpa and AFP.