Berlin braces for high temperatures, with forecasts predicting temperatures to potentially hit 40 degrees Celsius.
Berlin, Germany, is currently experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures predicted to reach nearly 40°C by Wednesday, according to the weather service DWD. The heatwave is expected to last until Thursday, offering some relief with nighttime temperatures hovering around 20°C.
In response to the extreme temperatures, the city of Berlin and its outdoor pool facilities are taking precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of its residents. The Berliner Bäder Betriebe are preparing for increased crowds at outdoor pools, with extra security staff stationed and ID checks and bag searches in place at some facilities. Public swimming pools are also preparing for the influx of visitors, aiming to provide a cool and enjoyable respite from the heat.
In addition, the city's zoos, such as the Berlin Zoo, are taking steps to help animals cope with the heat. Measures include providing animals with water showers and ice blocks with fruit.
Meanwhile, Brandenburg is bracing for wildfires due to the heatwave. The region is under a high or second-highest fire warning level, and over 100 early-warning sensors have been installed in Brandenburg's forests. New unmanned firefighting vehicles have been deployed to combat wildfires, and the standard wildfire prevention and response measures are likely being implemented to mitigate wildfire risks effectively.
Heatwaves in Europe have triggered forest fires and health alerts, including in Germany and surrounding regions. To prepare for wildfires during prolonged periods of heat and drought, measures such as monitoring fire risk levels closely, restricting access to vulnerable forest areas, preparing firefighting resources and personnel for rapid response, issuing warnings to the public to avoid activities that could spark fires, and implementing water usage limits to preserve resources for firefighting if needed are typically implemented.
To stay safe during the heatwave, it is recommended to drink two to three liters of water daily to stay hydrated, schedule strenuous activities during the cooler parts of the day, wear a head covering and high-factor sunscreen to protect against sun exposure, keep homes as cool as possible by airing them during the night, wear light clothing, and avoid spending time outdoors during peak heat. Vulnerable groups such as older adults, children, outdoor workers, and people with chronic health conditions should be paid special attention.
Storms and cooler air are expected to sweep in on Thursday, providing some relief from the heatwave. Residents of Berlin and Brandenburg are encouraged to stay connected with those who may need assistance or monitoring during extreme heat.
[1] [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/health/heat-illness/heat-stroke-symptoms-treatment#1) [2] [The Local](https://www.thelocal.de/20210721/berlin-zoo-takes-measures-to-keep-animals-cool-during-heatwave) [3] [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256) [4] [Euronews](https://www.euronews.com/2021/07/20/germany-issues-forest-fire-warning-as-heatwave-grips-europe)
As the heatwave continues, the city of Berlin is preparing for an increase in outdoor pool visitors, ensuring safety and comfort with additional security, ID checks, and bag searches. Weather-forecasting services predict relief from the heatwave by Thursday, but in the meantime, it's essential to take precautions like staying hydrated, seeking cooler areas, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat as temperatures may still reach nearly 40°C.
