Recurring heatwaves could cost Germany over $23B a year
Germany's economy could lose more than **$23 billion every year** if extreme heatwaves become a regular occurrence, according to a new economic study released on Thursday.
The research, conducted by economic analysis firm **Prognos** for the German business newspaper **Handelsblatt**, found that every day with temperatures exceeding **35°C (95°F)** could cost Europe's largest economy nearly **$1.15 billion**. The losses are driven by reduced productivity, business disruptions, and the wider economic impact of extreme weather.
According to the study, the intense heatwave that struck Germany during the final two weeks of June alone caused an estimated **$7.25 billion** in economic damage. High temperatures affected workplaces, transportation, and other sectors, highlighting the growing financial burden of climate-related events.
Researchers warned that such heatwaves may become much more frequent in the coming years. Germany could experience **three or four heatwaves of similar intensity every year**, significantly increasing the strain on businesses and the national economy.
If these projections become reality, Germany's annual economic losses from extreme heat could exceed **$23 billion**, underlining the urgent need for stronger climate adaptation measures and strategies to protect workers, infrastructure, and economic activity from rising temperature.