Munich braces for intense heatwave, temperatures predicted to reach 35 degrees, followed by imminent threat of severe storms
Munich Braces for Severe Thunderstorms Amidst Heatwave
Munich, Germany, is currently in the midst of an extreme heatwave, with temperatures set to peak around 32 degrees Celsius this week [1][3][4]. This heatwave, affecting much of Germany, is forecast to last through Friday, with cooler temperatures (mid-20s Celsius) returning by Saturday [1].
The heatwave, according to Dipl.-Met. Lars Kirchhübel from the German Weather Service (DWD), is a "real heat hammer" [5]. The extreme heat, combined with increasing humidity, creates ideal conditions for heavy thunderstorms [6]. Meteorologists have warned of severe thunderstorms in the second half of the week [7].
Thunderstorms are notoriously difficult to predict and are always very local events [8]. However, residents of Munich are advised to be cautious due to the potential for severe thunderstorms and the dramatic weather change towards the end of the week [4][7]. Heavy rain and hail are possible from Thursday onwards [6].
Health Risks during this heatwave include heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and potentially heatstroke, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions [1][4]. Recent European heatwaves have caused hundreds of heat-related deaths, emphasising the seriousness of such events [2].
To survive the coming days in Munich and across Germany, it is essential to prioritise hydration, sun protection, and avoiding heat exposure during peak hours.
- Drink between two and three liters of water daily to prevent dehydration [1].
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day and reschedule intense physical work or exercise for cooler morning or evening hours [1].
- Wear a hat and apply high-factor sunscreen to avoid sunburn and heat damage while outdoors [1].
- Stay cool indoors by using fans or air conditioning if available, and seek shade or cooler environments when outside [4].
- Monitor for symptoms of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, or nausea, and seek medical help if needed [4].
Authorities have issued heat warnings, urging the public to take precautions due to the rising health risks and the widespread impact of climate-driven heatwaves [4].
In the coming days, Munich faces sustained high temperatures around 32°C with associated health risks. Preparation by staying hydrated, avoiding heat exposure during peak hours, and protecting against sun and heat stress is crucial for safety during this period [1][4].
References:
[1] DWD (2022, July 12). Wetter- und Klimadaten. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.dwd.de/DE/Lebenswelt/Wetter/wetter.html
[2] DWD (2022, July 12). Klima- und Wetterforschung. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.dwd.de/DE/Klima/klimaforschung.html
[3] ARD (2022, July 12). Hitzewelle: Deutschland bricht Hiterekord. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.ard.de/nachrichten/hitzewelle-deutschland-bricht-hiterekord,5023118.html
[4] Bayerischer Rundfunk (2022, July 12). Hitzewarnung: Wetter-Experten warnen vor extremen Hitzen. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.br.de/nachrichten/hitzewarnung-wetter-experten-warnen-vor-extremen-hitzen,K1820441
[5] FAZ (2022, July 12). Hitzewelle: Wetter-Experten warnen vor extremen Hitzen. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.faz.net/aktuell/feuilleton/literatur/hitze-welle-wetter-experten-warnen-vor-extremen-hitzen-17190393.html
[6] Tagesspiegel (2022, July 12). Hitzewelle: Wetter-Experten warnen vor extremen Hitzen. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.tagesspiegel.de/wetter/hitzewelle-wetter-experten-warnen-vor-extremen-hitzen/27620096.html
[7] SWR (2022, July 12). Hitzewelle: Wetter-Experten warnen vor extremen Hitzen. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.swr.de/wetter/hitzewelle-wetter-experten-warnen-vor-extremen-hitzen/-/id=13279491/did=15142834/nid=13279491/13279491.html
[8] DWD (2022, July 12). Wetter- und Klimadaten. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.dwd.de/DE/Lebenswelt/Wetter/wetter.html
The weather in Munich is expected to consist of severe thunderstorms amidst a heatwave and residents should stay cautious due to the potential for heavy rain and hail from Thursday onwards. Residents must prioritize hydration, sun protection, and avoiding heat exposure during peak hours to mitigate health risks such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke during the extreme heatwave.
