Germany is in the midst of a dangerous heatwave, with the German Weather Service (DWD) issuing widespread warnings that will remain in effect for most of the week. Only parts of northern and eastern Germany are spared from the intense heat. Temperatures between 30°C and 36°C were recorded on Tuesday, with forecasters predicting highs of up to 38°C in some regions by Thursday and Friday. Along the coasts, conditions will be slightly cooler, offering rare relief from the oppressive heat.
Authorities have issued heat-related advisories across much of the country, urging residents to limit outdoor activity during peak hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable individuals. The DWD also warns of severe heat stress in large parts of the country, especially in the southwest where extreme heat warnings have been activated. Intermittent thunderstorms with heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds are possible midweek in the Alps, low mountain ranges, and northwestern regions, although these storms are not expected to bring widespread relief.
The sweltering conditions are expected to continue into Saturday. On Thursday, isolated but intense showers and thunderstorms may occur, especially in the southwest. Friday will bring another day of strong to extreme heat stress, particularly in southeastern Germany. By Saturday, some southern and southeastern areas could see strong thunderstorms with heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds, though temperatures will remain uncomfortably high in most parts of the country.
Germany’s heatwave is part of a broader European weather crisis. The United Kingdom is facing severe drought after the driest first half of the year since 1976, with reservoir levels dropping to just 67.7% of capacity. The Environment Agency has issued a national warning as harvests falter and water restrictions, such as garden watering bans in Yorkshire, come into effect.
In Spain, the extreme heat has fueled devastating wildfires, claiming lives and forcing thousands to evacuate in Madrid’s suburbs and the region of Castile and León. Strong winds have made firefighting efforts more challenging, and new fires have erupted near the tourist hotspot of Tarifa.
France is sweltering under “exceptional” temperatures, with Paris forecast to exceed 36°C and the Rhône Valley possibly reaching 40°C. Authorities there have halted outdoor construction work during the hottest hours to protect workers. Italy has issued red heat alerts in eleven cities, including Rome and Milan, as the mercury soars.
In the Balkans, nearly 40 wildfires erupted in Albania on Monday, while Montenegro battled flames on the outskirts of its capital, Podgorica. Kosovo recorded a staggering 42.4°C in Klina, the highest temperature since records began in 1987.
Meteorologist Akshays Deoras from the University of Reading warns that the current heatwave is a symptom of a warming world. “Due to climate change, we now live in a significantly warmer world, and this fact is increasing both the frequency and intensity of heatwaves,” he told AFP.
Scientists caution that without significant climate action, such extreme weather events, including prolonged droughts, intense heatwaves, and flash floods, will become more common and more severe, posing growing challenges for infrastructure, health systems, and agriculture across Europe.
For practical tips on how to protect yourself during this heatwave, read our comprehensive Heatwave Safety Guide. Stay informed and stay safe!
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