Another day of scorching heat is expected - Scorching temperatures expected once more today.
In the midst of a scorching heatwave, cities across Germany are taking steps to ensure the safety and comfort of their most vulnerable residents - the homeless population. With temperatures predicted to peak at 38 degrees Celsius in some areas, such as Frankfurt, the need for heat protection measures has become increasingly urgent [1].
The German Cities Association (Deutscher Städte- und Gemeindebund) has called for concrete action from the federal government and states, rather than leaving the burden solely on municipalities. They believe that sufficient drinking water stations, shady places at easily accessible locations, and heat-resistant emergency shelters for homeless people in the summer are essential [2].
The President of the German Red Cross (DRK), Jörg Muster, has highlighted the danger posed to homeless individuals during hot days. Without protected retreat spaces and access to drinking water, these vulnerable citizens are at risk [3]. To address this, some cities are providing concrete help, such as water, sunscreen, and sun shelters [4].
Eva Welskop-Deffaa, the President of the German Caritas Association, has emphasized the need for help for homeless people and societal empathy. She has warned against the expulsion of homeless people from cities, a practice that is currently being supported by the U.S. President [5].
As the heatwave subsides, temperatures are expected to cool down, with predictions of mid-20s across the country [1]. This cool-down is expected to bring relief from the earlier heatwave conditions. However, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and comfort of homeless individuals, with cities continuing to implement measures to prevent cities from overheating, such as installing drinking water fountains, planting shade-giving trees, and creating green spaces and green roofs [2].
In conclusion, as the heatwave subsides, cities in Germany are taking action to ensure the safety and comfort of their homeless population. The German Cities Association is calling for a stronger focus on heat issues in the "National Action Plan on Homelessness" to ensure that these measures continue to be implemented and improved upon in the future.
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