Severe heatwave imminent, Met Office issues alert - Alert issued by meteorological agency on imminent heatwave and health risks
Southwest Germany Braces for Extreme Heat Stress
Residents of southwest Germany, including the state of Baden-Württemberg, are being urged to take precautions as the region is set to experience a prolonged period of extreme heat. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued warnings for high temperatures nearing 40°C, particularly in the Rhine region and Stuttgart.
According to the DWD's forecast, today will see the sun dominating the skies, with possible cirrus clouds and isolated showers or thunderstorms in the southern Black Forest in the evening. The Rhine region is expected to reach highs of up to 38 degrees Celsius, while higher elevations and Upper Swabia will see around 32 degrees. Overnight into Friday, a warm summer night is expected with temperatures between 22 and 18 degrees Celsius.
To stay safe during this heatwave, the DWD and German health authorities recommend several key precautions. Hydration is crucial, with individuals advised to drink between two and three liters of water daily to prevent dehydration. Strenuous or outdoor activities should be planned for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Sun protection is also essential. Residents are advised to wear a hat or head covering and apply high-factor sunscreen to protect from UV radiation. Light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing is recommended, and indoor cooling should be sought as much as possible, whether in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
Limiting exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours when temperatures are highest (30-38°C or above), is also advised. Overnight precautions are necessary, as temperatures may remain elevated (above 15°C), which can affect recovery from daytime heat. Special care should be taken for children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses, who are more susceptible to heat stress.
These recommendations align with the guidelines during this heatwave, which is expected to last through the week, with temperatures in Stuttgart and the southwest reaching up to about 35°C and higher in nearby regions. The DWD expects the intense heat to persist until Friday, when thunderstorms may bring some relief.
On Friday, the weather is expected to be more changeable, with rain or thunder in the morning and an increased risk of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Temperatures will again reach high levels, up to 36 degrees Celsius in the Upper Rhine valley. The DWD advises to avoid the heat and not go outside in the afternoon, keep the body cool, drink enough, and wear light clothing, a hat, and avoid alcohol.
By following these safety precautions, residents can reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke during this extreme heat period. It is also important to keep apartments cool and to keep an eye on others, especially the elderly and vulnerable, who are particularly at risk in heat.
[1] DWD Weather Forecast [2] German Health Authority Guidelines [3] European Heat Dome Event [4] DWD Warnings for Southwestern Germany [5] Heatwave Impact in Stuttgart and Southwest Germany
- In light of the prolonged heatwave in southwest Germany, it's essential for residents to adhere to the community policy on energy conservation, as air-conditioned environments can provide much-needed relief from the extreme heat, while also reducing energy consumption according to the energy policy.
- As the weather forecast predicts temperatures near 40°C, it's crucial to monitor weather-forecasting closely and adjust energy policy accordingly, utilizing energy-efficient appliances to maintain indoor temperatures and ensure continued safety during the heatwave.
