Heat wave: Almost 35 degrees reached in Berlin and Brandenburg!

Heat wave: Almost 35 degrees reached in Berlin and Brandenburg!

On Sunday, June 22nd, the summer sun heated up Germany's spirits and temperatures. In Potsdam, Brandenburg, the thermometer climbed to an impressive 34.8 degrees, while in the Tempelhof district of Berlin it was only slightly cooler at 34.7 degrees. Although these values ​​are maximum values ​​for the respective day, they do not represent the peak values ​​of the month. The temperature of 39.2 degrees, which was measured in Cottbus on June 19, 2022, remains record-breaking and is therefore also considered the hottest June value in the region Daily Mirror reported.

In Saarbrücken-Burbach the highest temperature of 2023 was reached last Sunday at 36.2 degrees. But while we enjoy the heat, the weather forecast is mixed: a cooling down in sight with the possibility of severe thunderstorms, hail and squalls. These predictions are no coincidence. As early as June 2022, Germany experienced quite changeable weather conditions with intense thunderstorms, heavy rain and, in some parts, extreme drought, which also led to forest fires the German Weather Service explained.

Weather extremes as the new normal?

Climate change is contributing to an increase in hot days. Vulnerable groups such as older people, pregnant women and the chronically ill, as well as healthy people who are at risk from the high temperatures, are particularly affected. According to the daily news There have already been 50 hot days in Germany since the heat stroke in 2024 - 24 more than in a year in which climate change would not have played a role.

What does this actually mean for the population? The risk of heat stroke and exhaustion is increased on hot days when temperatures exceed 90 percent of the values ​​of the last 30 years. Symptoms such as heavy sweating, increased heart rate and dizziness can be recognized. To avoid this, people should drink plenty of water, wear light and airy clothing and take advantage of potential coolness at night.

Preventive measures and urban planning

To mitigate the effects of the heat, Germany is increasingly relying on practical measures. Cities are working on heat action plans and creating public spaces to cool down. Consideration is also being given to creating additional drinking fountains and planting trees to reduce ambient temperatures. Helpful tips on cooling are also provided, as reflective colors on roofs can reduce temperatures inside buildings by up to 7 degrees.

With a trained look at the current weather data, it becomes clear that the extremes of the last few days are just the tip of the iceberg. Focusing on preventative measures and comprehensive urban development solutions is becoming more imperative than ever in order to take people's quality of life into account in the face of climate change. The next few days will not only bring heat, but also the chance to breathe deeply in terms of weather.