Europe-wide heatwave peaks with nearly 10,000 heat-related deaths in Germany this year

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9 days · 7 summary articles
Germany is experiencing the peak of a heatwave with temperatures expected to reach up to 39 degrees Celsius on Thursday, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). Nearly all of Germany is under official heat warnings, and severe thunderstorms are expected in parts of the country, with risks of stormy gusts and even hurricane-like winds in some areas.
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported that nearly 10,000 people have died due to heat in Germany this year, which is the highest number since 2016. The RKI noted that the majority of heat-related deaths are among people aged 75 and older, and more women than men are affected, which is attributed to the higher proportion of women in older age groups.
In Romania, the National Meteorological Administration (ANM) has issued heat warnings, including an orange code for Bihor, Arad, and Timiș counties starting Friday, July 31, 2026. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius in the coming days. ANM director Elena Mateescu stated that the heatwave is intensifying and expanding across Romania, with tropical nights expected in some areas.
Hungary is also experiencing a third-level heat alert with temperatures expected to reach up to 37 degrees Celsius. The heatwave has led to a third-level heat alert in several counties, including Győr-Moson-Sopron, Komárom-Esztergom, and Veszprém.
Spain is grappling with a heatwave that has seen temperatures reach up to 42 degrees Celsius in some regions. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued warnings for several communities, including Andalusia, Aragon, and Catalonia. The heatwave is expected to continue into the next week, with temperatures remaining high.
France is dealing with record temperatures and wildfires, leading to a debate about the need for air conditioning. The heatwave has strained infrastructure and businesses, with wildfires and insurance costs rising.
The heatwave has also affected other parts of Europe, including Austria, where temperatures are expected to reach up to 38 degrees Celsius. In Cyprus, a yellow weather warning has been issued for high temperatures, with inland temperatures set to reach 40 degrees Celsius.
The heatwave has led to increased demand for air conditioning units across Europe, with major Chinese brands reporting higher sales overseas. The surge in sales comes as European leaders consider imposing tariffs on Chinese imports, which they say are damaging their own industries.
The heatwave has also affected the Danube River, with record-low water levels impacting tourism and industry. The drought and heat have parched the continent since May, leading to stranded boats and out-of-work fishermen.
In Germany, hospitals are using simple measures to combat the heat, such as morning ventilation and closing windows during the day. Officials have warned that heat can be dangerous, especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
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