More heat deaths in June and July than ever

Austria recorded its highest number of heat-related deaths during June and July this year, according to calculations by the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES). The health ministry confirmed that 646 people died due to heat exposure during these months, surpassing previous records. This figure marks a sharp increase compared to earlier years, with 570 heat-related deaths in the same period in 2024 and just 284 in 2023. The data highlights the growing impact of extreme temperatures on public health in Austria. The summer of 2025 has been particularly severe, with prolonged periods of high temperatures placing additional strain on the healthcare system. A new analysis conducted by the Austrian Healthcare Company (GÖG) shows which medical facilities are most affected by heat stress. According to long-term averages, around 20 percent of examined institutions have faced high levels of heat exposure. However, this year's situation has been far more intense, with over 70 percent of hospitals, senior care centers, and nursing homes, along with 80 percent of primary care units, experiencing at least 20 days of extreme heat by the end of July. Approximately one-quarter of all facilities were exposed to at least 30 days of heat. Health Minister Korinna Schumann emphasized the need to look beyond the number of heat-related deaths and consider how rising temperatures affect the healthcare system itself. She noted that particular attention must be given to institutions caring for individuals with higher vulnerability. “We must not only focus on the number of heat-related fatalities,” she said. “We also need to understand what the increasing heat means for our healthcare system.” Schumann added that the government is currently analyzing the data to identify problem areas and determine where targeted interventions are needed. The study combined location data of hospitals, senior care centers, and primary care units with heat exposure metrics. “We will not pretend there is a simple solution to a complex issue,” she said. “But we can precisely examine where the greatest risks lie, and act accordingly.” Wolfgang Katzian, president of the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB), reiterated calls for further heat protection measures for workers amid climate change and the current heatwave. He stated that such measures had already been included in the government’s program. The figures for heat-associated mortality are based on a scientific model developed by AGES. Heat is rarely listed as a direct cause of death in official documents and databases. However, it can exacerbate pre-existing heart and lung conditions. To estimate the number of heat-related deaths, mortality and weather data are analyzed statistically to assess how many fatalities could be linked to unusual heat exposure. According to AGES, 646 people died as a result of heat effects in June and July. The health ministry stated that this is the highest value recorded for this time frame. Previously, AGES had typically released such figures in the autumn. Earlier reports indicated that the previous record for heat-related deaths up to the end of July was set in 2024. The current numbers underscore the severity of the situation and the urgent need for adaptive strategies to protect vulnerable populations and healthcare infrastructure against future heatwaves.