Thunderstorms foreseeable within the upcoming week, with temperatures potentially climbing up to 37 degrees.
With temperatures forecast to reach up to 38°C and potentially near 40°C in some areas, Germany is currently experiencing a severe heatwave [1][5]. As the weekend approaches, the country is set to bask in plenty of sunshine, with the north experiencing some dense clouds and occasional rain, while the rest of the nation enjoys mostly sunny skies with scattered clouds [6].
Health authorities in Germany have issued advisories to protect against the heat, recommending measures such as drinking two to three liters of water per day, rescheduling strenuous activities to cooler parts of the day, wearing head coverings, and applying high-factor sunscreen when outside [1]. These measures, while broadly effective at lowering individual risk, may require further institutional support to fully mitigate the risks during this intense heatwave.
The anticipated return to milder temperatures (mid-20s Celsius) by Saturday may alleviate some immediate health risks [1]. However, the heatwave is expected to continue, with temperatures reaching 37°C on Tuesday in parts of the country [2]. The German Weather Service (DWD) also predicts an increase in the risk of thunderstorms from Tuesday, with isolated, sometimes strong showers or thunderstorms near the Alps possible on Sunday [6].
The high temperatures could make life "rather intolerable for many people" [3]. Elderly and vulnerable individuals will be particularly affected [7]. To cope with the heat, the DWD advises avoiding the heat, drinking enough, wearing light clothing, eating lightly, and avoiding alcohol [3].
In a survey by "web.de", only one in four respondents think the heat protection measures are sufficient, while 23% are undecided [8]. A staggering 52% of respondents believe cities and municipalities are not investing enough in heat protection measures [8].
The weather is predicted to be warm and unsettled for the coming days. On Sunday, temperatures in the north will range from 20 to 25 degrees, while the rest of Germany will experience temperatures from 25 to 32 degrees [6]. High temperatures on Tuesday will range from 24 to 30 degrees in the north and 30 to 37 degrees in the rest of the country [2].
In response to the heatwave, the DWD has issued heat warnings for southern Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, with expected highs of up to 34 degrees [4]. Urban areas in the west and southwest will experience tropical nights with temperatures around 20 degrees on Tuesday [6]. Thunderstorms expected to come from the south and west could be strong and heavy, with heavy rain, gusty winds, and hail [6].
As Germany braces for the intense heatwave, it is crucial for individuals to take the necessary precautions and for authorities to provide adequate support to ensure public safety.
References: 1. Deutsche Wetterdienst 2. Deutsche Wetterdienst 3. Deutsche Wetterdienst 4. Deutsche Wetterdienst 5. Deutsche Wetterdienst 6. Deutsche Wetterdienst 7. Deutsche Wetterdienst 8. web.de
The warnings issued by health authorities urge people to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during peak heat, wear protective clothing, and use high-factor sunscreen as the severe heatwave continues in Germany. However, the population is concerned that city and municipalities are not investing enough in heat protection measures to fully mitigate the risks.
