Europe Heatwave: Hungary Breaks Record, Germany Reports 11,900 Deaths

An intense heatwave sweeping across continental Europe has brought record-breaking temperatures and a significant public health toll. Hungary recorded its highest-ever temperature for a specific day, while Germany has reported thousands of heat-related deaths.

In Hungary, the mercury hit 41.8 degrees Celsius on Thursday, surpassing the previous national record for that date by 1.6 degrees Celsius. The Hungarian Meteorological Service noted that this reading, which breaks a 121-year-old record, is based on preliminary data and is still subject to verification.

Authorities in Hungary have issued warnings about the health risks of the sustained high temperatures. The National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy and the National Directorate General for Disaster Management have jointly urged the public to take precautions, emphasizing that the heat can affect everyone, particularly the most vulnerable. The heatwave has also intensified drought conditions and lowered water levels in major rivers across the country.

Meanwhile, Germany is facing a severe public health crisis. A report from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the country's leading public health body, estimates that heat-related deaths reached 11,900 in the first seven months of 2026. This figure already surpasses the full-year totals recorded since 2016. The surge is largely attributed to an extreme heatwave that began in late June, which alone is responsible for approximately 9,600 deaths.

The RKI data highlights that the elderly have been disproportionately affected. Over 6,000 deaths occurred among people aged 85 and older, with an additional 2,900 deaths recorded in the 75 to 84 age group. During the peak of the heatwave in late June, temperatures exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of Germany, and further scorching weather is expected in early August.