Thunderstorm risk escalates, potentially reaching 37 degrees next week - Increased temperature forecasted up to 37 degrees, accompanied by an escalating threat of thunderstorms next week.
Thunderstorm Risk and Heat Wave Continue to Impact Germany
Next week in Germany, unstable atmospheric conditions are expected to result in an increasing risk of thunderstorms, bringing heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, hail, and localized flooding. These storms could disrupt transportation, cause localized power outages, and pose risks to outdoor activities and agriculture.
According to the German Weather Service (DWD), the thunderstorm risk will start to increase from Tuesday, coming from the south and west. In the afternoon on Tuesday, the Alps will also see an increased risk of thunderstorms. The north will see some rain, while the rest of the country will have mostly sunny skies with only scattered clouds.
On Sunday, temperatures in the north of Germany will reach 20 to 25 degrees, while elsewhere they will be 25 to 32 degrees. On Monday, the Upper Rhine will see highs of 33 degrees, while the coast will be 21 degrees. On Tuesday, parts of Germany could reach up to 37 degrees.
The ongoing heat and drought contribute to atmospheric instability conducive to thunderstorm development next week. While specific storm forecasts in August identified some risk areas in southern Germany for heavy rainfall and severe gusts, emerging conditions could extend thunderstorm threats more widely.
Recommended precautions include staying updated with local weather warnings and forecasts through reliable sources, avoiding outdoor activities during thunderstorm warnings, especially in open or exposed areas, securing loose outdoor objects to prevent wind damage, preparing for potential power outages by charging devices and having emergency supplies, being cautious on roads during heavy rainfall and wind to prevent accidents, and avoiding the use of open fires or barbecues due to increased wildfire risk amid drought and heat conditions.
Elderly and vulnerable people will be particularly affected by the heat and are advised to avoid the heat, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol.
A survey by "web.de" found that 52 percent of respondents believe cities and municipalities are not investing enough in heat protection, while 59 percent of people in large cities expressed dissatisfaction with the measures taken against heat.
Long-term forecasts come with greater uncertainties according to the DWD meteorologist Lars Kirchhübel. The weather is expected to be warm and unsettled in the coming days. The DWD has issued heat warnings for southern Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg today, with expected highs up to 34 degrees.
In summary:
| Potential Impacts | Precautions | |-------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------| | Heavy rainfall and localized flooding | Monitor weather alerts regularly | | Strong wind gusts and hail | Avoid outdoor exposure during storms | | Transportation disruptions | Secure outdoor objects and prepare for power outages | | Increased wildfire risk in dry areas | Avoid open fires during heat and drought |
Given the ongoing heat and drought, the combination of intense heat and sudden thunderstorms warrants vigilance to mitigate hazards next week in Germany.
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft report on the implementation of the Community's energy policy, as the ongoing heat and drought in Germany could impact the country's energy resources due to increased demands during weather extremes, such as thunderstorms risk and power outages.
In addition, the weather forecast indicates a continued risk of thunderstorms, wind gusts, and heavy rainfall throughout the country, which may affect the accuracy and reliability of weather-forecasting tools and infrastructure.
