Germany reports 26 swimming deaths during record heatwave weekend

The German Lifesaving Association (DLRG) reported on Monday that 26 people died in swimming-related incidents during a record-hot weekend from Friday to Sunday. The figures include individuals reported missing and not yet found. Additionally, seven fatal accidents were reported on Thursday, according to the DPA news agency. Over the weekend, eight people were taken to hospital while undergoing resuscitation, and a 15-year-old boy sustained serious injuries after jumping into a quarry lake.

Germany experienced repeated heat records over the weekend, with temperatures peaking at 41.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday in the eastern state of Brandenburg near Berlin. Even before the heatwave, the DLRG had urged people not to underestimate the dangers of swimming in hot weather. DLRG President Ute Vogt stated, "We see time and again that men in particular overestimate their abilities and take risks that could be avoided." According to the DLRG, in 2025, four out of five drowning victims were male (82%). All 26 people reported dead over the weekend were men and boys.

The report by Mehr News Agency added that the DLRG continues to emphasize water safety, especially during extreme heat conditions.