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Germany in the heat loop: Danger to life due to record temperatures!
Extreme temperatures over 40 degrees are putting Germany under pressure. Health risks are increasing as the heatwave continues.
Germany in the heat loop: Danger to life due to record temperatures!
The weather situation in Germany is currently dominated by an extreme heat dome, which is driving not only the locals but also many travelers into the grips of unbearable temperatures. Loud Mercury There is a risk of peak temperatures of up to 40 degrees in the shade in the coming days, and temperatures can even feel like they can reach up to 46 degrees, which could have a serious impact on the well-being of many. Extreme temperatures of up to 43 degrees have already been reported, particularly in southern regions such as France and Italy. German health authorities are also warning about the potential dangers of this heat wave.
The heat wave has already had its first effects: heat strokes, dehydration and circulatory problems are just some of the health risks that primarily affect older people, children and people with chronic illnesses. The Federal Environment Agency highlights that “hot days” have now become normal in Germany. Between 2000 and 2024, temperatures above 30 degrees were recorded more frequently, while tropical nights, in which temperatures do not drop below 20 degrees, also increased.
Health effects of heat
The connections between heat and health should not be underestimated. The Robert Koch Institute informs that the number of heat-related deaths has increased alarmingly in recent hot spells. In the hot summers of 2018 and 2019, around 15,600 people died due to the heat. Forecasts suggest that mortality due to extreme temperatures may continue to increase in the future, particularly on hot days and tropical nights.
The heat dome not only has health impacts, but also infrastructural impacts. The high temperatures put a lot of pressure on air conditioning systems and power grids, which can lead to an increased risk of power outages. The weather services classify the situation as “potentially life-threatening” and advise the population to take precautionary measures. Studies have already shown that the danger from the urban heat island effect is particularly pronounced in large cities.
Preparing for the heat wave
Given the unfavorable weather, numerous preventative measures are necessary. The RKI emphasizes the need for effective heat protection measures and cooperation between health authorities, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Federal Center for Health Education and the German Weather Service. The first weekly report on heat-related mortality in the current summer period will be published today, July 10, 2025, and will provide important data on heat development and its impacts in calendar week 26.
The hope of a rapid slowdown is perhaps too optimistic given the current circumstances. While a slight cooling is expected for Thursday, July 3rd with temperatures between 25 and 34 degrees, the high heat stress will continue to persist. The air movement is almost non-existent, which only increases the heat build-up. The preventive measures already mentioned and careful handling of the high temperatures are essential.
Future heat waves could become more intense due to climate change and have longer durations. This represents a serious challenge for both health and infrastructure in Germany.