Overview
- The Robert Koch‑Institut reported roughly 5,100 heat‑related deaths tied to the late‑June heat period, while the Statistisches Bundesamt recorded about 6,800 excess deaths in the week of June 22–28.
- People aged 75 and older and those with chronic heart, lung, kidney or neurological conditions accounted for most estimated heat deaths because heat typically worsens existing illnesses.
- Forecasters warn a fresh heatwave will arrive this weekend or early next week with widespread mid‑30s °C and local peaks toward 37–39 °C, initially with drier near‑surface air but growing model uncertainty after about July 18.
- The June episode already depressed city‑centre retail footfall by up to half at peak temperatures, strained cooling systems and staff, and exposed that many hospitals and care homes lack basic shading and cooling.
- Medical experts and patient advocates are calling for faster action, including heat action plans, urban greening and a proposed €30 billion federal investment program to retrofit hospitals and care facilities.