Heat warning in Wiesbaden: Tips for safe handling of heat

Heat warning in Wiesbaden: Tips for safe handling of heat

in Wiesbaden is a hot weekend ahead, since the Hessian heat warning system has announced the warning level 2. This warning of the German Weather Service (DWD) is pronounced when the perceived temperature over 32 degrees Celsius increases on four consecutive days. Children, older people and those with health impairments are particularly at risk.

The Minister of Health appeals to the population to adapt to the upcoming high temperatures. "Drink enough, keep up in the shade and avoid exhausting activities," she recommends. Sun protection is also particularly important. The minister advises to close windows and roller blinds to keep the apartment cool. Further options for cooling are cool showers, foot baths and drinking mineral water. Drinks with alcohol, caffeine or high sugar content should be avoided better to cover the fluid requirement.

health risks and warning system

The Hessian warning system distinguishes between two stages, whereby the warning level 1 applies at a perceived temperature of over 32 degrees and level 2 occurs when the perceived temperature exceeds 38 degrees or level 1 on four consecutive days. It is particularly mentioned that at temperatures above 36 degrees in particular, older and needy people can suffer from extreme stress.

In order to ensure the well-being of these vulnerable groups, the facilities for elderly and disabled people were addressed and asked to take measures to protect their residents. The minister emphasizes the importance that caring relatives are also attentive and respond to the needs of their family members.

recommendations for action were provided to support care institutions in exceptional heat periods. These recommendations are accessible online and offer important information on protection against the health consequences of the heat.

The comprehensive information is supplemented by the possibility of subscribing to the DWD newsletter free of charge in order to be informed about current warnings and forecasts. The warning app "Hessenwarn" also enables citizens to procure quick information.

Background for the development of the heat warning system

The Hessian heat warning system was introduced by the country together with the DWD in 2004 after the extremely hot summer 2003. The aim is to protect older people in care facilities from the health risks of extreme temperatures and to provide information about upcoming heat stress in good time. The establishment of this warning system shows how serious the uncomplicated but potentially dangerous effects of heat are taken. Especially in urban space, the risk is higher due to lower nightly cooling, which means that additional precautionary measures are required.

The Hessian Ministry of Family, Seniors, Sport, Health and Care also provides tips in several languages that help citizens in their efforts to protect themselves and others from the dangers of the heat.