Following the scorching heat exceeding 30 degrees, Germany encounters fierce thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms loom over Germany this weekend, with potential for severe weather
After a spate of warm, sunny days, a shift in weather is expected over the weekend in Germany. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), temperatures will rise above 30 degrees Celsius, culminating in partly heavy thunderstorms.
Currently, a high-pressure system is bringing a mix of sunshine and clouds, particularly in the south. The north, however, is under the influence of a weak trough, resulting in a lively west wind and abundant clouds, with minimal rainfall for the remainder of Friday. Temperatures in the middle and south regions are anticipated to reach at least 25 degrees Celsius, with the Upper Rhine region nearing the 30-degree mark.
By Saturday, temperatures are expected to increase to up to 31 degrees Celsius in the southwest. "The air will become increasingly humid, and the atmosphere will gradually charge up," says DWD meteorologist Tobias Reinartz. "From the afternoon hours, it could initially break out in the west, and later in the day, it could also spread eastward over the central regions." There is a risk of severe weather in affected areas, including heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds. "Localized flooding, water-logged basements, and uprooted trees are possible outcomes," Reinartz warns.
On Sunday, the next thunderstorms are expected to approach, with the southeast and eastern parts of Germany potentially witnessing further strong thunderstorms. In contrast, the west and northwest are expected to experience improved weather conditions.
"The weather is expected to remain unsettled, with showers and thunderstorms likely, and temperatures decreasing in the coming week," says the expert.
According to additional sources, the weekend weather pattern is reminiscent of a late spring Nor’easter, characterized by chilly winds and showers. Look for temperatures to gradually warm up from early next week, with highs increasing from around 16 degrees Celsius on June 4 to approximately 22 degrees Celsius by June 20, with lows hovering in the 10°C to 20°C range.
Following the weekend, the weather may begin to warm up as the storm system moves away, reducing the likelihood of severe thunderstorms in the immediate days following. In Bavaria, for instance, temperatures are expected to rise steadily in the weeks ahead, with highs increasing from around 16°C to 22°C.
The Commission has been consulted on the impact of intense weather events, such as thunderstorms, on environmental-science, particularly in regards to the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation that may arise from these phenomena.
Science may play a crucial role in predicting the long-term effects of these weather patterns, such as the late spring Nor’easter, on the climate and environment, aiding in the development of future prevention and mitigation strategies.
