Rising risk of thunderstorms expected next week, with temperatures potentially reaching up to 37 degrees.
Heat and Thunderstorms Sweep Across Germany
Germany is bracing for a week of extreme weather conditions, with temperatures soaring and thunderstorms looming. The Upper Rhine is expected to reach 33 degrees on Monday, while temperatures on Tuesday will range from 24 to 30 degrees in the north and 30 to 37 degrees elsewhere.
However, a survey by "web.de" and Civey has found that 52% of respondents believe cities and municipalities are not investing enough in heat protection measures. Only one in four respondents considered the measures sufficient, while 23% were undecided. People in large cities are particularly dissatisfied with the heat protection measures, with 59% expressing this sentiment.
The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued heat warnings for parts of southern Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. The DWD advises avoiding the heat, drinking enough, wearing light clothing, eating lightly, and avoiding alcohol. The risk of thunderstorms will increase from Tuesday, coming in from the south and west. Strong, sometimes heavy thunderstorms with heavy rain, gusts of wind, and hail are possible.
The increase in heavy thunderstorms and high temperatures in Germany is primarily caused by climate change. Rising temperatures, more frequent and intense heat waves, and resulting unstable weather patterns such as severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are all consequences of climate change. A stationary disturbance over Germany combined with high pressure areas around the Mediterranean and Scandinavia can also cause prolonged periods of torrential rain and storms, sometimes called a "summer monsoon" effect. The interplay of drought conditions earlier in the year and subsequent rains also contributes to volatile weather, increasing both wildfire risks and heavy storms.
For vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, people with pre-existing health conditions, and those without access to cooling resources, precautions include staying well-hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat. Seeking shade or air-conditioned environments, especially as air conditioner use and sales have surged due to rising temperatures, is also advisable. Avoiding exposure during severe thunderstorms and following official weather warnings since storms may bring hail, strong gusts, and flooding risks is crucial. Monitoring local advisories for flood warnings and wildfire risks, particularly in high-risk areas in southern and eastern Germany, is also important.
These steps help reduce heat stress and injury related to storms. The ongoing increase in extreme weather highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and public health measures tailored to protect vulnerable populations in Germany.
Long-term forecasts are associated with greater uncertainties.
Stay safe and stay informed during this period of extreme weather.
What kind of weather conditions can we expect from Tuesday onwards in Germany? Heavy thunderstorms.
As temperatures soar and the risk of thunderstorms increases, it's crucial for vulnerable individuals to stay well-hydrated, seek shade, and follow official weather warnings to reduce heat stress and injury related to storms.
