Germany’s medical director, Uwe Jansnes, has asserted that the Robert Koch Institute’s figures of nearly 12,500 heat-related deaths this summer are lower than the actual figures.
Dr. Jansnes of the German Society for Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine told the Funke Media Group newspapers: "There are certainly several thousand additional deaths," explaining that many cases are not recorded as being related to the heat, because death certificates may indicate, for example, organ failure.
He added: "It is therefore assumed that the Robert Koch Institute's figures do not reflect the full picture of the seriousness of the situation," noting that elderly people who live alone and suffer from pre-existing conditions are among the most vulnerable groups.
"As a citizen, I am deeply shocked by the inaction of the federal and state governments," Janznes added, calling for a binding national plan for heat protection and more funding to enhance heat protection in hospitals.
Janznes also saw a need for more neighborly assistance, psychosocial support, and communication networks in order to reach people at risk early during heat waves. He explained that in France, for example, municipalities actively communicate with people at risk who are registered with them, while in Germany, "people die not only because of the heat, but also because of societal neglect," he said.
The Robert Koch Institute estimates that the heat wave in Germany led to approximately 12,500 deaths between April 6 and August 2, 2026.
According to the institute, the highest number of deaths was recorded during the heatwave from June 22 to 28, with the institute estimating approximately 9,600 heat-related deaths during that week. The Robert Koch Institute states that this estimate is conservative and may be revised later.
