Extreme Temperature Alert: Warnings Issued for Highs Reaching 38 Degrees
Berlin and Brandenburg are set to endure a scorching heatwave this week, with temperatures potentially reaching or exceeding 40°C. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a warning for an increased risk of forest fires due to the combination of high temperatures, dry weather, and gale force winds following thunderstorms.
From Tuesday to Thursday, the region will experience extreme heat, with temperatures climbing to 32 to 35°C. The heatwave, part of a larger pattern causing early and persistent extreme heat, is expected to significantly increase forest fire probabilities.
The DWD predicts plenty of sunshine and tropical nights, with temperatures not dropping below 20°C even at night. This means residents may experience oppressively warm nights, with temperatures above 20°C.
Thursday is expected to be the hottest day, with cooling not expected until Friday night. Wednesday may reach a peak of 38°C, and Sunday and Monday will have a more moderate heat, with temperatures up to 38°C during the day and noticeable cooling at night.
The Ministry of the Environment has issued the highest danger level for forest fires in certain districts, including Dahme-Spreewald, Elbe-Elster, and Teltow-Fläming. Local authorities have already taken precautions, such as keeping certain forests closed due to storm damage and fire danger, and warning against entering vulnerable forest areas for safety reasons.
A DWD spokesperson suggested Sunday and Monday as a good opportunity to air out homes, as these days may offer a brief respite from the extreme heat. However, caution and awareness are critical during this heatwave period.
The heatwave has already brought record highs and wildfire alerts across much of Germany and Europe. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions to stay safe and help prevent forest fires.
[1] German Weather Service (DWD) forecast and warnings. [2] Climate Central: Early and persistent extreme heat increases forest fire risk. [3] Local authority precautions and forest closures due to storm damage and fire danger. [4] Wildfire alerts across Germany and Europe due to the heatwave. [5] The Guardian: Europe swelters in record-breaking heatwave, with wildfires breaking out across the continent.
[1] As the German Weather Service (DWD) predicted, the heatwave in Berlin and Brandenburg is expected to significantly increase forest fire probabilities, with temperatures reaching up to 38°C during the day and not dropping below 20°C even at night.
[2] Given the extreme heat and dry weather, weather-forecasting reminds us of the increased risk of forest fires, urging residents to take necessary precautions and heed warnings during this period.
