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Following the intense heat, a thunderous downpour unfolds

Stormy weather looms after a hot period.

Afternoon development of intense rainstorms accompanied by heavy showers locally.
Afternoon development of intense rainstorms accompanied by heavy showers locally.

Following the intense heat, a spell of turbulent weather is expected - Following the intense heat, a thunderous downpour unfolds

Hot Weather Gives Way to Thunderstorms Across North Rhine-Westphalia

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Prepare for some thunderous action, folks! After a scorching spell of heat in North Rhine-Westphalia with temperatures soaring beyond 30°C, a stormy turn is making its arrival. The German Weather Service (DWD) in Essen confirms the formation of powerful thunderstorms in regions like the Eifel and Rhineland since the afternoon, accompanied by torrential rains.

A meteorologist reported substantial rainfall reaching up to 25 liters per square meter per hour during the afternoon, and hailstones as large as two to three centimeters have been reported. As the evening progresses and the night sets in, these thunderstorms are expected to head further northeast.

It was a hot and sticky day across the region, with temperatures peaking at 30°C on Saturday. However, heavy rain following the initial thunderstorms in the Eifel has provided some much-needed respite from the sweltering heat. "It's been a humid and sultry day in North Rhine-Westphalia," the meteorologist said.

For the remainder of this evening, the Eifel, Bergisches Land, Sauerland, and Ostwestfalen face an increased risk of severe thunderstorms, which can lead to heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. exact locations of these storm cells are difficult to predict short-term. Thunderstorms are also expected to hit the lowlands, bringing their share of heavy rains.

Weather forecasts predict more thunderstorms throughout the night and into Sunday, followed by a noticeable drop in temperatures. Highs are anticipated to fluctuate between 21 and 24°C, with 19°C in higher altitudes, while minimum temperatures are expected to be cooler. Throughout the week's start, the likelihood of showers is low, while sunny summer weather is expected to return, with temperatures reaching up to 25°C on Monday and a slight temperature increase on Tuesday.

  • Thunderstorms
  • Rain
  • Temperature
  • North Rhine-Westphalia
  • Eifel
  • Heat

Fun Fact: Interestingly, the city of Euskirchen — located near North Rhine-Westphalia — is anticipated to witness maximum temperatures as high as 33°C (most likely during mid-June) and cooler minimum temperatures throughout the night[1]. Keep in mind that North Rhine-Westphalia, including the Eifel region, is subject to variable weather, and the area occasionally experiences heavy rainfall events, especially in the summer months[3]. Be sure to check weather updates frequently and, if you're planning outdoor activities, consider utilizing wet weather refuges and huts recommended for hikers in the Eifel region[5].

Despite the heatwave earlier in the week, the Commission has not yet adopted a decision on the application of the new rules for extreme weather events, as North Rhine-Westphalia braces for more thunderstorms tonight and into Sunday. The Eifel region, in particular, could face severe thunderstorms, accompanied by heavy rain, hail, and strong winds, offering a stark contrast to the hot and sultry day experienced just a few days ago.

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