Heat wave is coming: 37 degrees and highest risk of forest fires in Germany!

Heat wave is coming: 37 degrees and highest risk of forest fires in Germany!

The new heat wave is rolling over Germany and doesn't stop at Cologne. radioguetersloh.de reports alarming temperatures that are expected to climb above 30 degrees in many parts of the country at the beginning of summer on Saturday, June 21st. In the southwest half, peak temperatures of up to 37 degrees are forecast, which may result in a new heat record for 2023. The previous record is 35.5 degrees, measured on June 14th in Kitzingen, Bavaria.

Particular caution is required because the heat not only brings with it a high thermal load, but also a huge risk of forest fires. The highest danger level of five already exists, especially in regions such as Brandenburg, Lower Saxony, Saxony and Thuringia. Hot outside and cool inside - you could say that this is the call to retreat to air-conditioned rooms for the next few days or perhaps take a trip to Heligoland, where temperatures remain below 25 degrees.

Health risks in hot weather

This oppressive heat can be a real challenge for many people. Older people, chronically ill people and small children are particularly at risk, as high temperatures can have health consequences. According to the DWD, disorders of the cardiovascular system, heat cramps and even heat strokes occur. On days with extreme heat stress, mortality increases by 10 to 15 percent.

Symptoms such as circulatory problems, dizziness or headaches are serious warning signs that should not be ignored. It is therefore advisable to avoid direct sunlight and to drink enough fluids during the hottest hours of the day. You should avoid alcohol as much as possible so as not to put additional strain on your body.

Climate change and hot days

Climate change is a major contributor to the intensification of these heat events. According to a study by the Robert Koch Institute, the mean temperature in Germany has been around two degrees above pre-industrial levels over the last decade. Eight of the ten hottest summers have been recorded in the last 30 years, showing that the frequency and intensity of such heatwaves have been steadily increasing since the 1980s.

The latest report shows that heat waves can have a negative impact on the well-being of many people. There's only one thing that helps: prepare well! Tips range from avoiding exposure to the sun to finding cool places to making sure windows and doors stay closed in the heat to avoid letting more heat into the house.

The next few days could be a test for many people from Cologne as the heat fills the streets. It remains to be seen how the weather situation develops. A bit of cooling is forecast for Sunday evening with heavy showers and thunderstorms, so perhaps the perfect time for a refreshment!