Germany Heatwave: Temperatures to soar up to 39°C this week

Germany is facing a heat wave. The German Weather Service (DWD) in Offenbach predicted severe heatwave for the west and south southwest of a line from the Lower Rhine to Upper Franconia on Sunday and warned of heat waves. Temperatures will continue to rise until midweek.

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In addition, the risk of thunderstorms is gradually increasing. According to the weather service, temperatures will reach up to 35 degrees Celsius on Sunday in the Upper and High Rhine regions. In the north, highs will still be between 22 and 27 degrees Celsius. Temperatures are expected to rise there as well starting Monday. 

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The hottest day is forecast for Wednesday. Temperatures could reach up to 37 degrees Celsius in Hamburg, and even up to 39 degrees Celsius between Hanover and Braunschweig. Similar high temperatures are also forecast for Wednesday in Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Baden-Württemberg, parts of Bavaria, and Berlin.

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It's also expected to be very hot in the other federal states, with slightly cooler temperatures expected only along the coasts and south of the Danube. Isolated heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected, especially in the southwestern mountains, and later, with a slight probability, in the northwest as well.

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The weather calls for "sun protection and reminds us of the recommended heat behaviors: drink plenty of fluids, avoid exertion, and seek cool places," the weather service explained.

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Southern Europe has been sweating for days under the first major heat wave of the summer. In Spain, for example, temperatures are expected to rise to more than 40 degrees Celsius in most parts of the country starting Sunday.

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In Portugal, high alert was declared for Sunday due to extreme heat and the risk of forest fires in two-thirds of the country. Temperatures of 42 degrees Celsius were expected in the capital, Lisbon, among other places. It was also expected to be very hot in Italy and southern France.

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The elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable to extreme heat, which can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke. As Germany faces soaring temperatures this week, it's crucial to take precautions. Read our expert tips on staying safe, hydrated, and cool during the heat wave.