Increased instances of intense rainfalls are being observed.
Climate change is causing a significant increase in extreme weather events in Germany, leading to more frequent and intense heat waves, floods, and droughts. These events have major economic and environmental impacts, affecting sectors like agriculture, forestry, and infrastructure.
The 2021 flood disaster in the Ahr Valley is a prime example of the devastation these events can cause. Heat and drought years in 2018 and 2019 also resulted in significant financial losses.
The Technical Relief Agency (THW) in Germany plays a critical role in responding to these natural disasters. With the rise in extreme weather events, THW deployments have increased to handle more frequent and severe incidents. Flooding events, such as the 2021 Ahr Valley floods, require extensive THW involvement for rescue operations and infrastructure support. Heat waves and droughts can lead to secondary emergencies like wildfires or water shortages, which might necessitate THW assistance.
Looking to the future, climate projections indicate that Germany will continue to experience more frequent and intense weather events. This necessitates continued adaptation and preparedness from emergency services like THW. Germany's climate strategy emphasizes collaboration between federal and state levels to assess risks and implement adaptation measures, including enhancing resilience in infrastructure and emergency response systems.
However, this increased deployment frequency poses challenges for the THW. Frequent deployments could strain THW’s operational capacity, necessitating increased funding and resource allocation. The need for specialized equipment and training to handle diverse weather-related emergencies will also grow.
Recently, Sabine Lackner, the President of the Technical Relief Agency (THW), stated that extreme weather events are increasing due to climate change. She also noted an increase in heavy rainfall events and an increase in the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. Her deployment figures show a similar trend, with an increase in extreme weather events requiring THW intervention.
Despite recent showers and thunderstorms in Germany, no major damage has been reported so far. However, the evening forecast warns of locally severe weather with heavy rain of up to 20 liters per square meter in a short period of time. The German Weather Service (DWD) expects more thunderstorms overnight from the Alps and the Black Forest to eastern Saxony and eastern Bavaria.
In conclusion, the rise in extreme weather events due to climate change poses significant challenges for emergency responders like THW in Germany. Effective planning, resource allocation, and interagency collaboration are crucial for managing future deployments and ensuring public safety.
Food resources are at risk due to the increase in extreme weather events as a result of climate change, impacting agriculture and potentially leading to food shortages in Germany. The Technical Relief Agency (THW) relies on environmental-science research and weather forecasting to prepare for and respond to these events, such as the upcoming heavy rainstorms being warned by the German Weather Service (DWD).
